Selene

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Selene

Gender Girl
Origin French
Letters 6
Syllables 3
Pronunciation suh-LEEN

Selene, which has 6 letters and 3 syllables, is a female name of French origin.

Meaning of Selene

Moon

The name Selene is of Greek origin and means "Moon Goddess". In Greek mythology, Selene was the goddess of the moon.

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Meaning Moon
Origin French
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #675 in 2024 Rising
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Modern (peaked 2024)

Background & History of The Name Selene

The name Selene is of Greek origin and holds significant historical and mythological importance. It derives from the Greek word "selas," meaning "light" or "brightness." In Greek mythology, Selene was the goddess of the moon, corresponding to the Roman goddess Luna. She was often depicted as a beautiful woman with a serene and calm expression on her face, holding a crescent moon above her head. Selene was believed to travel across the night sky in her chariot, pulled by a pair of white horses.

The ancient Greeks attributed several characteristics to Selene, associating her with love, feminine beauty, and fertility. She was also believed to have powers over sleeping and dreaming. It was said that Selene had a passionate love affair with the shepherd prince Endymion, which resulted in the birth of fifty daughters. It is fascinating to note that the term "selenophile," meaning a person who loves the moon, derived from her name, further emphasizing her influence and significance.

The popularity of the name Selene has spread across various cultures over time. Today, it is widely used in different parts of the world as a given name for girls. The name gained attention through various novels, movies, and TV shows, further contributing to its widespread use. It symbolizes beauty, elegance, and a connection to the celestial world.

Furthermore, Selene is a name that carries a sense of mystery and enchantment. It captures the fascination humans have had with the moon throughout history. The name Selene is a beautiful choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughters, a name that represents a powerful goddess and embodies the beauty and allure associated with the moon.

Popularity Over Time

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

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