The origin of the name "Pompeii" has given rise to various interpretations. One of the leading theories suggests that it comes from the Greek term "pempo," meaning "to dispatch." This is due to its significant role as a center of trade between the coast and the interior in the context of Magna Graecia. Another possible explanation relates to the exploits of its mythological founder, Hercules, who, after completing his twelve labors, returned "pompa Herculis," i.e., "in triumph of Hercules," which may have given rise to the city's name.

Another classical theory is based on the Oscan word "pumpe," meaning "five," suggesting that the city was formed from the union of five villages. The geographer Strabo proposed a different etymology, noting that Pompeii was near a river that served to "receive goods and dispatch them."