Aphrodite is a beautiful and unique feminine given name of Greek origin. Its meaning and history are deeply rooted in ancient mythology.
The name Aphrodite comes from the Greek word 'aphros', which means "foam". According to Greek mythology, Aphrodite was born from the sea foam after the god Cronus castrated his father Uranus with a sickle sent by his mother Gaia. The genitals of Uranus fell into the sea and where they landed turned into foam, giving birth to the goddess Aphrodite.
Aphrodite is known as the goddess of love, beauty, pleasure, and procreation in Greek mythology. She was one of the most popular goddesses among the Greeks and had many temples dedicated to her throughout ancient Greece. Her cult was especially prominent on the island of Cyprus, where she was known by the name Aphrodite Kyprogenes.
In art and literature, Aphrodite has been depicted as a stunningly beautiful woman, often accompanied by symbols such as roses, doves, sparrows, and swans. She is also associated with the myrtle tree and the apple, which are considered sacred to her.
Despite its origins in ancient mythology, the name Aphrodite remains popular today. It is a powerful and elegant name choice that carries a rich history of love and beauty. Those named Aphrodite may feel a connection to the goddess's grace and allure, while also honoring the fascinating tales of Greek mythology.
The name Aphrodite has had a varied history of usage in the United States over the past century. Between 1915 and 2023, there have been a total of 686 babies born with the name Aphrodite.
During the early to mid-20th century, the number of births with this name fluctuated significantly each year, ranging from as low as 5 in certain years to as high as 17 in others. The most popular decades for the name during this period were the 1920s and 1930s, with a total of 164 births between them.
After a significant decline in usage during the mid-20th century, the name Aphrodite began to regain popularity in the late 1970s. From 1975 onwards, there have been at least five births each year, with notable peaks in recent years such as 19 births in 2020 and 18 births in 2023.
Overall, while the name Aphrodite has not been among the most commonly used names in the United States, it has maintained a consistent presence throughout the past century. Its usage trends reflect broader shifts in naming preferences, with periods of increased popularity often corresponding to cultural or historical events that have brought attention to the name's meanings and associations.