Despoina

In Greek mythology, Despoina is the daughter of Demeter and Poseidon. Associated with the veil and with fertility, Despoina was worshipped nearly exclusively at the Eleusinian Mysteries (the initiations for the cult of Demeter and Persephone).

Pronounced as DHESS-pi-na in Greek (DH, like the beginning of then), but dess-PEE-nuh elsewhere, the mythological figure is shrouded in mystery, her "true" name only ever being revealed to those initiated in the Eleusinian religion and therefore lost to time.

Meaning "lady", "mistress of the house", or "dame", Despoina has also been used as an epithet for several goddesses, including Aphrodite, Hecate, Persephone, and Demeter. In more recent times, it has been born by footballer Despoina Chatzinikolaou.

Most notably used in its native Greece, the alternative spelling Despina is more likely to be used elsewhere.

Pronounced des-POY-nuh.