What is the origin of the name Penelope?

It is of ancient Greek origin, appearing prominently in Homeric epic poetry.

What are common nicknames for Penelope?

Common nicknames include Penny, Nell, Nellie, Poppy, and Penny-Lo.

Is Penelope a popular name?

Yes, it has become a top-ranking name in many Western countries, including the United States, in recent years.

Name meaning & originPenelope Πηνελόπη

/puh-NEL-uh-pee/

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Penelope is a Greek girl's name pronounced /puh-NEL-uh-pee/. This name is most commonly associated with the meaning of weaver.

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Meaning of Penelope

This name is most commonly associated with the meaning of weaver.

The name is derived from the Greek elements 'pene', meaning thread or web, and 'ops', meaning face or eye. In Homer's Odyssey, Penelope is the faithful wife of Odysseus who delays her suitors by weaving and unweaving a shroud. Some etymologists also suggest a connection to 'penelops', a type of wild duck, based on legends that she was rescued by birds as an infant.

Origin: Greek
Pronunciation: /puh-NEL-uh-pee/

Cultural background

While historically rooted in Greek mythology, the name has seen a massive global resurgence in English-speaking countries over the last two decades.

Variations & nicknames

Penny
Nell
Poppy
Pippa
Pénélope
Penélope

Famous people named Penelope

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

Penélope Cruz
Academy Award-winning Spanish actress
Film · Modern
Penelope Fitzgerald
Booker Prize-winning English novelist and poet
Literature · 20th Century
Penelope Wilton
Acclaimed English stage and screen actress
Film · Modern
Penelope Spheeris
American director of Wayne's World
Film · Modern
Penelope
The wife of Odysseus in Homer's epic poem The Odyssey
Mythology · Ancient Greece

Frequently asked about Penelope

What is the origin of the name Penelope?: It is of ancient Greek origin, appearing prominently in Homeric epic poetry.
What are common nicknames for Penelope?: Common nicknames include Penny, Nell, Nellie, Poppy, and Penny-Lo.
Is Penelope a popular name?: Yes, it has become a top-ranking name in many Western countries, including the United States, in recent years.

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