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[103] διακτόρωι ἀργεϊφόντηι: these names of Hermes are obscure. The former perhaps means ‘the runner,’ from “διακ-”, a lengthened form of “δι-α-”, root “δι” to run, whence also “διώκ-ω”: cf. “διάκονος. Ἀργεϊφόντης” is traditionally explained slayer of Argos; but the legend implied is evidently later than H. and may have arisen from the name itself. Even in ancient times an alternative der. from “ἀργός” and “φαίνω” was current, and was accepted by Ar., in the sense swift appearing. For want of a better it may pass; but the “ει” and “ο” are unaccounted for, the proper form being evidently “ἀργιφάντης”, if any. Generally speaking, these mythological names are inexplicable to us. (See Roscher Lex. i. 2384.)

The Iliad, edited, with apparatus criticus, prolegomena, notes, and appendices. Walter Leaf. London. Macmillan. 1900.

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