Graecicization

But the name is a graecicization of an older form of unknown origin (there is also a Céreste in the Alps).

On the other hand, it is more likely that -του reflects an attempt at graecicization by a scribe whose knowledge of Greek and Greek orthography, as the inscription amply demonstrates, was none too secure.

The form ᾿Ιερἀ Πἑτρα shows a further Graecicization whereby the meaningless Πὐτνα has been replaced by Πἑτρα.