In Greek mythology, Apollo was known by the epithet Phoibos, meaning “bright” or “radiant.”
Phoibos, commonly written Phoebus in Latinized form, is a traditional epithet of Apollo. It appears in ancient Greek poetry and later literary tradition, where it highlights the god’s brilliance and purity. The epithet became especially familiar in Roman literature and in English translations of classical works.
Apollo had a broad range of powers and identities. He was associated with prophecy, music, poetry, healing, archery, and the protection of flocks. Later writers increasingly connected him with the Sun, sometimes bringing him close to Helios, the older Greek personification of the Sun.
Phoebus is not a separate Olympian god. It is an epithet, or descriptive title, for Apollo. The same god also had titles such as Pythian, linked with Delphi and Apollo’s victory over Python.