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Origin and meaning of the name Amalthea

What is the origin of the name Amalthea?

The given name Amalthea is derived from the Greek mythological figure Amaltheia or Amalthea, who was the she-goat that nursed Zeus when he was hidden away as an infant to protect him from his father Cronus. The name itself is a combination of two Greek words: "amalthe" (she-goat) and "thea" (goddess). It has been used occasionally as a given name in English, French, and other languages since the Renaissance period.

Learn more about the origin of the name Amalthea

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Amalthea

The name Amalthea is of Greek origin and is derived from the word "Amaltheia," which means "nurturer" or "tender of young." It is most famously associated with Amalthea, the goat who nursed Zeus when he was hidden away from his father Cronus. In Greek mythology, Amalthea's teat miraculously produced milk after she had no milk to give, symbolizing an endless source of nourishment. The name gained popularity in the 19th century and is now used primarily in English-speaking countries as a given name for girls. It conveys a sense of nurturing, care, and abundance.

Character traits associated with the name Amalthea

Amalthea is often characterized by intellectual curiosity and deep empathy. Her thirst for knowledge, particularly in the fields of philosophy, psychology, and mysticism, sets her apart. She possesses a strong analytical mind and has an innate ability to comprehend complex concepts with ease. Amalthea's compassionate nature makes her deeply attuned to others' emotions and struggles, inspiring her to offer support and understanding. She values introspection and self-awareness, constantly striving for personal growth and spiritual enlightenment. Her patience, kindness, and wisdom make her an excellent listener and counselor, attracting a diverse group of friends and confidants. Amalthea's love for learning and nurturing others contributes to her reputation as a compassionate intellectual.

Popularity of the name Amalthea

The name Amalthea, derived from Greek mythology and associated with the goat that nursed Zeus, has seen modest but consistent usage across various regions and cultures over time. In recent years, its popularity has fluctuated somewhat, being more common in certain niche circles or regions compared to mainstream names. Nonetheless, it remains an intriguing and unique choice for parents seeking a name with historical and mythological origins. While not as prevalent as some other names, Amalthea stands out for those drawn to rare and meaningful monikers. Its popularity can be considered moderate at present, yet the name continues to captivate and inspire curiosity among new parents searching for distinctive and evocative names for their children.

Famous people with the name Amalthea

Amalthea is an uncommon name that has been borne by several notable individuals across various fields. In literature, Amalthea Cross (1872-1936) was an American poet and novelist known for her works, including "The Wine of Life." In the realm of science, Amalthea Hartzog (born 1954), an American astrobiologist, has made significant contributions to our understanding of extraterrestrial life and habitability. Lastly, in music, Amalthea is the pseudonym of the Australian singer-songwriter Amalthea Liddy, who gained fame for her ethereal folk melodies and introspective lyrics. These are some of the most notable individuals named Amalthea, each making their mark in their respective fields.

Variations of the name Amalthea

Amalthea is a unique and captivating name of Greek origin, derived from the mythological character Amaltheia, who was the goat that nursed Zeus when he was hidden away as an infant to protect him from his father Cronus. The name Amalthea is associated with nurturing and protection. Variations of this name include:

1. Amalthee - A less common spelling variation, maintaining the original root.
2. Amaltéa - An alternate French spelling.
3. Amalthia - A variant that places emphasis on the second syllable.
4. Amaltea - A slight alteration in spelling, often found among Spanish speakers.
5. Amalthae - A less common way to spell the name with an added 'e' at the end.
6. Amalti - A diminutive form that is sometimes used informally.
7. Amalia (or Amaleia) - These variations are more traditional Greek names derived from Amalthea, while still retaining some of the original charm.
8. Althea or Altha - Shortened forms, simplifying the name for everyday use.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 15 June 2025

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