Leda

Origin and meaning of Leda

Leda is a name from Greek mythology, of uncertain etymology, perhaps from the Lycian lada, 'woman, lady.' In myth she is the queen of Sparta loved by Zeus in the shape of a swan, and mother of the famous Helen of Troy and the Dioscuri. Short and luminous, the name has inspired painters and poets in every age. In Italy it is rare but classically charming and sophisticated, little used outside the Mediterranean and Greek world.