Penelope
Weaver, faithful wife of Odysseus
Origin
Used in
Popularity
#48 in the Italian baby-name ranking
Origin and meaning of Penelope
Penelope derives from the Greek Pēnelópē, perhaps from pḗnē, 'weft, thread' — thus 'weaver'. In the Odyssey she is Odysseus's faithful wife who, weaving and unweaving her cloth, awaits her husband's return for twenty years: an eternal symbol of fidelity and patient cunning. Found in the English-speaking world, Italy, Spain (Penélope) and Greece, it blends classical allure with character. Prized for its mythological elegance and rich sound, it is a refined, meaningful choice.
Variants around the world
How Penelope sounds in other languages.
Famous people
- Penélope Cruz— actress
- Penelope Fitzgerald— writer
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Frequently asked questions
What does the name Penelope mean?
The name Penelope means Weaver, faithful wife of Odysseus.
What is the origin of the name Penelope?
Origin of Penelope: Greek.
What are the international variants of the name Penelope?
International variants of Penelope: Penélope, Penny, and Pénélope.