Penélope
Penélope Origin and Meaning
Penélope is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Penelope, a name with ancient Greek origins. In Greek mythology, Penélope was the faithful wife of Odysseus who waited twenty years for his return from the Trojan War. The name is believed to derive from Greek elements meaning 'weaver' or possibly 'duck,' as she was known for weaving and unweaving a burial shroud to delay her suitors. The accented form Penélope is particularly popular in Spanish-speaking countries and Brazil. The name's popularity has increased globally in recent decades, partly due to the fame of Spanish actress Penélope Cruz. It combines classical heritage with a melodic quality and cross-cultural appeal. Parents are often drawn to its combination of historical depth, feminine elegance, and the strength associated with its mythological namesake.
Popularity of the name Penélope
- 1846Nameberry2025