What title does the Greek word “Christ” mean when applied to Jesus?

When applied to Jesus, the Greek title “Christ” means “Anointed One.”

The word Christ comes from the Greek Christos, a translation of the Hebrew-derived title Messiah, which also means anointed one. In ancient Israelite tradition, anointing with oil was associated especially with kings and priests, and sometimes with other people set apart for a sacred role. The title therefore carries religious and royal associations.

“Jesus Christ” is not a first name and surname in the modern sense. It means Jesus who is regarded as the Christ, or Messiah. Early Christian writings use the title in different grammatical forms, including Christ Jesus and Jesus the Christ.

The title is related to, but not identical with, other New Testament descriptions such as Son of God, Son of Man, and Son of David. Those titles have their own histories and meanings. “Messiah” comes through Hebrew and Aramaic usage, while “Christ” comes through Greek translation; both refer to the idea of an anointed figure.