The brand whose name comes from the Greek goddess of victory is Nike.
Nike is named for Nike, the Greek personification and goddess of victory. In mythology, she represented success in battle and other contests, and was often shown winged, moving swiftly to crown victors.
The sports company began as Blue Ribbon Sports in 1964, founded by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman. It adopted the Nike name in 1971. The name is pronounced “NY-kee,” not “nyke,” reflecting the usual English pronunciation of the goddess’s name.
Nike’s famous Swoosh was created separately by graphic-design student Carolyn Davidson in 1971. The company’s other major brand symbol, “Just Do It,” did not appear until 1988.