Athena: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Athena mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Greek: Goddess of wisdom and war
Symbol: Wisdom, courage, inspiration

Gender: Female

Syllables: 3

Pronunciation: The name Athena is pronounced uh-thee-nuh

The name Athena has a rich history rooted in Greek mythology, named after the revered Greek goddess of wisdom, warfare, and handicraft. Athena was known for her strategic skill in warfare and her tireless pursuit of knowledge, embodying wisdom and courage. The name symbolizes strength, intelligence, and inspiration, making it a strong and meaningful choice for a baby girl.

Girl name variations

Athena in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

Athena from The Percy Jackson Series - A wise and powerful goddess of wisdom, war, and useful arts.
Athena from DC Comics - A warrior and advisor to Wonder Woman, representing wisdom and strategy.
Athena from Battlestar Galactica - A key character in both the original and reimagined series, portrayed as a skilled pilot and officer.
Athena Cykes from Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney - A vibrant lawyer with an uncanny ability to sense emotions through voice tones.
Athena from Saint Seiya - A goddess who reincarnates to protect the Earth with the help of her loyal saints.
Athena from Borderlands - A skilled assassin and former Atlas Corporation soldier, known for her proficiency with a shield and dedication to her cause.

Popularity of the Name Athena

According to Social Security Administration data, Athena has been steadily rising in popularity over the past several years, currently ranking within the top 100 baby names in the U.S. As the name of Zeus' daughter, Athena's name carries significant historical and cultural weight, originating from Greek mythology where Athena is known as the goddess of wisdom, courage, and warfare. This association with divine wisdom and strength likely contributes to its appeal among modern parents.

A Greek goddess, Athena has appeared in various forms of literature, including Homer's Odyssey. Historically, the name Athena has been borne by notable figures such as the renowned classical scholar Athenaeus of Naucratis. In contemporary times, actresses like Athena Karkanis and athletes such as Athena Andreadis have carried the name into the public eye. Other notable Athenas include Athena Marguerite Francoise Marie, Princess of Denmark, and TV personality Athena Lee. Fictionally, Athena appears in various forms of media, including Rick Riordan's popular Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, and as a character in the video game Borderlands and the animated series Saint Seiya. The name's mythological roots and its growing presence in popular culture underscore its enduring allure and versatility.