Acanthus

Latinized form of Greek Άκανθος (Akanthos), which is derived from Greek ακανθος (akanthos), the name of a plant with large spiny leaves. The plant ultimately derives its name from Greek ακη (ake) "thorn, point" and Greek ανθος (anthos) "flower, blossom". Also see Acantha. This was the name of several characters in Greek mythology, including a son of Autonous and Hippodamia who was named after the acanthus bush, a plant common in his infertile homeland. Acanthus was also the name of multiple ancient Greek cities. Finally, in real life, this name was borne by Acanthus of Sparta, a sportsman who participated in the Olympic Games of 720 BC.