Hector

American  

[hek-ter] / ˈhɛk tər /

noun

1. Classical Mythology. the eldest son of Priam and husband of Andromache: the greatest Trojan hero in the Trojan War, killed by Achilles.

2. (lowercase) a blustering, domineering person; a bully.

3. a male given name.

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verb (used with object)

1. (lowercase) to treat with insolence; bully; torment.

   The teacher hectored his students incessantly.

   Synonyms:

   harass, badger, persecute, torture

verb (used without object)

1. (lowercase) to act in a blustering, domineering way; be a bully.

hector ¹ British  

/ ˈhɛktə /

verb

1. to bully or torment

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noun

1. a blustering bully

Hector ² British  

/ ˈhɛktə /

noun

1. classical myth a son of King Priam of Troy, who was killed by Achilles

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Hector Cultural  

1. In classical mythology, a prince of Troy and the bravest of the Trojan warriors. At the end of the Trojan War (see also Trojan War), Achilles killed Hector and then dragged his body behind a chariot around the walls of Troy.

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Etymology

Origin of Hector

< Latin < Greek Héktōr, special use of adj. héktōr holding fast

Example Sentences

The first trial in 2003 saw Hector Dick give evidence against Fraser.

From BBC • Feb. 23, 2026

According to Hector Caruncho, professor of medical sciences at UVic and corresponding author of the study, therapies based on Reelin may offer a new way to address both gut and brain health.

From Science Daily • Feb. 2, 2026

Olympic champion Sara Hector warmed up for her women's giant slalom title defence at next month's Winter Olympics by winning the World Cup race on Saturday as US star Mikaela Shiffrin finished third.

From Barron's • Jan. 24, 2026

Authorities identified him as Hector Lionel Alfaro, 52.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 18, 2026

Hector walks over to a door mostly hidden by a long, standing mirror.

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern

Related Words

• browbeat
• irritate
• nag