Ariadne

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Ariadne

Gender Girl
Origin Greek
Letters 7
Syllables 3
Pronunciation AH-ree-AHD-nee

Ariadne, which has 7 letters and 3 syllables, is a female name of Greek origin.

Meaning of Ariadne

Holy

Ariadne is a Greek name derived from the elements ari (most) and adnos (holy). It is commonly translated to mean "most holy," "utterly pure," or "most sacred."

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Meaning Holy
Origin Greek
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #934 in 2018 Declining Fast
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Modern (peaked 2016)

Background & History of The Name Ariadne

The name Ariadne has Greek origins and is derived from the elements "ari" which means "most" or "very" and "adnos" which means "holy" or "chaste". Thus, the name Ariadne can be translated to mean "most holy" or "very chaste". In Greek mythology, Ariadne was a princess and the daughter of King Minos of Crete. She is best known for her involvement in the famous myth of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth.

Ariadne is primarily recognized for her role in helping the hero Theseus slay the Minotaur and navigate his way out of the Labyrinth. She provided Theseus with a ball of thread, known as the "thread of Ariadne", which he used to mark his path in the maze and find his way back out. This act of bravery and intelligence has made Ariadne a symbol of guidance and wisdom.

In addition to her role in Greek mythology, the name Ariadne has also gained popularity in literature and art. It has been used by various authors to depict strong and independent female characters. For example, T.S. Eliot's poem "The Waste Land" includes a character named Ariadne as a representation of hope and transformation.

Furthermore, Ariadne is a popular name in different cultures around the world. It has been embraced by parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughters. The name Ariadne brings to mind qualities such as purity, intelligence, and resiliency.

In conclusion, the name Ariadne holds historical and mythological significance. Its Greek origins, association with the Minotaur myth, and presence in literature and art make it a captivating and intriguing choice for many parents. The name Ariadne embodies strength, wisdom, and the ability to guide others through challenging situations.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Ariadne over the years.

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