What do the names Arctic and Antarctic mean?

While arctic may be utilized as an adjective, its usage as a noun specifically designates or denotes the regions that are north of the Arctic Circle, or the polar area north of the timber line.

Antarctic may also be utilized as an adjective; but as a noun, it specifically designates or denotes the region around the South Pole, Antarctica, and the surrounding ocean.

The Word "Arctic" comes from the Greek arktos, meaning "bear, Ursa Major, North Star." Antarctic just means "opposite the Arctic."