With different origins, commonly used or more exotic names can add an extra element of history in identifying children.
When choosing a name for your baby, searching for meanings is just as common as searching for its origins. And one of the most popular options for naming babies is to follow the mythology. Over time, different cultures have borrowed names that have survived to this day and have become popular (or not so popular) names and great options for those who want a good story to justify their choice.
Learn more about some names that have their origins in mythological stories.
Female names
Athena- goddess of civilization, the arts, wisdom and justice, is one of the main cult figures of Greek mythology.
Calliope- Muse of poetry and science in Greek mythology, this daughter of Zeus has a name whose meaning refers to a beautiful voice.
Cybele- the “mother goddess” of Phrygia, an ancient region of present-day Turkey, became known further west through her adoption by the Greeks, who made her in some respects comparable to GaiaMother Earth. The name refers to the origin of life.
Cinzia- the name is a variety of Artemisthe Greek goddess of the moon and the hunt. This is because, according to tradition, it derives from Monte Cinto.
Circe- Goddess of the New Moon and spells for the Greeks, this name is traditionally associated with magic.
Daphne- Apollo’s first love, this nymph was associated with fountains and streams. In the myth she ends up transforming into a laurel tree, whose name is associated with this plant.
Eurydice- nymph who brought Orpheus down to Hades (the “underworld” of Greek mythology), her name means something like “very just” or “wise justice”.
So what- Goddess of youth in Greek mythology, this name also refers to flowering.
Elena- Literally meaning “bright” or “shining,” the name Helen was immortalized by her abduction, which sparked the Trojan War. According to mythology, she was the most beautiful woman in the world.
Irene- goddess of peace in Greco-Roman mythology.
Isis- name given to the mother goddess of the pharaohs in ancient Egypt, featured prominently in beliefs related to the afterlife.
Penelope- wife of Ulysses Odyssey. The name means something like “she who weaves,” a reference to the legend that she spent a decade weaving a quilt while waiting for her husband to return.
Male names
Apollo- In Greco-Roman mythology, this Olympian god had various responsibilities, including being responsible for light, knowledge, healing, music, the arts, and even the protection of herds and young.
Achilles – Greek hero known for his leading role in IliadAchilles was considered invincible, except for his heel, which gave rise to the famous expression “Achilles’ heel”. It is worth dwelling more on the mythological origin than on the meaning of this name, which derives from the Greek “achos” and refers to pain.
Front – Some versions say that, in mythology, Anteros would be the brother of Eros (see below), his antithesis, so this name often appears in lists like this. However, it is more likely that its meaning has little to do with deities and derives from the word antherosterm for “flower” or “flowery”.
Arthur- The name attributed to the legendary British king has Celtic origins and means something like “brave bear”.
Eros- god of love in Greek mythology (and the root of the word “erotic”), the name refers to this feeling.
Hector or Hector – another well known character of IliadHector played a pivotal role in the Trojan War. The name means something like “he who guards,” referring to courage.
Hercules – the son of Zeus was immortalized as a figure of extraordinary physical strength and enormous courage.
Icarus – Inspired by the famous Greek character who flew too close to the sun and melted its wings, the name represents someone who reaches for the sky, although the literal meaning is something like “follower.”
Thor- An increasingly popular name among superhero franchises, Thor was the god of thunder in Norse mythology, who also represented the protection of humanity, forests, and fertility.
Tristan or Tristan – Another name linked to the legends surrounding King Arthur, Tristan was one of the knights of the Round Table and is known for his tragic love story with Isolde. Literally the name has Celtic origins and means a person who is agitated or inclined to stories.
Odysseus – main character of Odysseyis one of the most well-known names in Greek narratives and epic poems. Interestingly, the root of the name means “he who irritates”.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
