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Origin and meaning of the name Daphne

What is the origin of the name Daphne?

Daphne is a female given name with origins rooted in Greek mythology. In ancient Greek, Daphne means "laurel tree" or "bay tree." The name comes from the story of Daphne, a nymph who was pursued by the god Apollo but was transformed into a laurel tree to escape him. This mythological tale is recounted in Ovid's Metamorphoses. Over time, the name Daphne has been popularized and adopted across various cultures, becoming a common given name in many parts of the world.

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Learn more about the origin of the name Daphne

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Daphne

The name Daphne is of Greek origin, derived from the Greek word 'daphne,' which means laurel tree. In mythology, Daphne was a nymph who was pursued by Apollo, the god of the sun, and to escape his unwanted advances, she was transformed into a laurel tree by her father Peneus. The transformation occurred after she prayed to the gods for help. This ancient myth has contributed significantly to the name's symbolism, associating it with growth, transformation, and chastity. Over time, Daphne became a popular given name in various cultures and continues to be used widely in the modern world.

Character traits associated with the name Daphne

Daphne is often associated with characteristics such as grace, beauty, and vivacity. Named after the nymph in Greek mythology who was transformed into a laurel tree to escape Apollo's advances, Daphne symbolizes elegance, charm, and elusiveness. Individuals named Daphne are often perceived as independent, intelligent, and full of life. They possess a strong sense of individuality and are known for their adaptability in various social situations. Daphne is also frequently associated with a love for nature, creativity, and a deep appreciation for art and culture. Overall, those named Daphne are seen as poised, lively, and intellectually curious individuals who maintain a unique blend of sophistication and spontaneity.

Popularity of the name Daphne

The first name Daphne, derived from a Greek mythological character, has been consistently popular throughout various periods and cultures. In ancient Greece, Daphne was considered a symbol of chastity, while in contemporary times, it represents elegance and charm. Over the years, Daphne has ranked among the top female names in several countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. Its popularity can be attributed to its unique sound, meaningful origin, and association with nature, as Daphne is the name of a flowering plant. However, the prominence of this name varies significantly across regions, with higher rankings in some areas than others. Despite fluctuations in popularity over time, Daphne continues to be a beloved choice for parents seeking a timeless and beautiful name for their daughters.

Famous people with the name Daphne

Daphne du Maurier (1907-1989) was an acclaimed British author and playwright, best known for her novels "Rebecca" and "Jamaica Inn." These works were adapted into films, significantly boosting her fame. In the realm of entertainment, Daphne Zuniga (born 1962) is a well-known American actress, known for her roles in films like "The Sure Thing," "Melrose Place," and "Spaceballs." Daphne Maxwell Reid (born 1948), another renowned actress, played the role of Aunt Vivian Banks on the television series "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" from its second season. In sports, Daphne Akhurst (1895-1964) was an Australian tennis player who won the Wimbledon Ladies' Singles title twice: in 1925 and 1930. These women have made significant contributions to literature, entertainment, and sports under the name Daphne.

Variations of the name Daphne

The name Daphne has several variants and derivatives in various languages. In English, some common variations include Daphne, Daffne, and Dafne. In other languages, these may take different forms. For instance, the French variant is Daphné, while in Italian it's Delfina or Toffana, both derived from Daphne through historical adaptations. In Greek, the original form of the name is Δάφνη (Dáphni), which comes from the word for laurel tree, a reference to the mythological figure Daphne, who was transformed into a laurel tree to escape Apollo. Additionally, there are diminutive forms such as Daffodil, based on the name's association with the flower of the same name.

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 : 24 July 2025

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