Alithea is a rare and unique feminine given name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word "alitheia" which means truth or reality. The name Alithea is associated with the goddess Athena, who was known for her wisdom and strategic skills in war.
In Greek mythology, Alithea was one of the three Graces, along with Euphrosyne and Thalia. They were the personification of charm, beauty, and joy, attending on Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. Alithea was also a nymph who was transformed into a spring by Zeus.
The name Alithea has been used in literature as well. It appears in the epic poem "Metamorphoses" by the Roman poet Ovid, where Alithea is one of the daughters of the river god Achelous. In modern times, it has been used as a character name in fantasy novels and movies.
Alithea is not a common name today, but it has a rich history and meaningful significance that makes it an attractive choice for parents looking for a unique and powerful name for their daughter. Its rarity also means that it is less likely to be shared by other children, making it stand out even more. Overall, Alithea is a strong and elegant name with a fascinating background and a beautiful meaning.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Alithea has seen varied popularity over several decades in the United States. The highest number of babies named Alithea was born in 2012 with a total of 11 births that year. This indicates that the name experienced its peak popularity during this time.
Before and after this peak, the name's popularity fluctuated. In the years leading up to 2012, there were several years where fewer than 10 babies were named Alithea each year, with the lowest being just 5 births in both 1974 and 1976.
After its peak in 2012, the name's popularity dipped again, but it did not return to the levels seen in the earlier years. In fact, from 2014 onwards, there were consistently more than 7 births each year, suggesting that while the name may not be as popular as it once was, it has maintained a steady level of usage.
In total, over these decades, there have been 82 babies named Alithea in the United States. This statistic provides insight into the longevity and consistency of this name's popularity among parents choosing names for their daughters.