Selene is a name that has been used for centuries, and it has a fascinating history and meaning. The name is of Greek origin, and it means “moon goddess.” In Greek mythology, Selene was the goddess of the moon and the sister of Helios, the sun god.
The name Selene is also sometimes associated with the Latin variation Selena, which is more commonly used in the United States. The etymology of Selene is uncertain, but some scholars believe that it is connected to the Greek word selas, which means “brightness.” Regardless of its exact origins, Selene is a beautiful and meaningful name that has stood the test of time.
Origin of Selene
Selene is a name with Greek origins and has been used since ancient times. The name Selene is derived from the Greek noun selas, which means “light, brightness, gleam” [1]. In Greek mythology, Selene was the goddess of the moon and was often depicted as a beautiful woman with long hair and a crescent moon on her forehead.
The name Selene has been used as a given name for girls since ancient times, and it has been a popular name throughout history. In Greek mythology, Selene was the daughter of the Titans Hyperion and Theia [1]. In ancient Roman religion and myth, Selene was often identified with Luna, the goddess of the moon [1].
Selene is also sometimes called Cynthia and Phoebe [2]. The name Cynthia is derived from the Greek word kynthos, which means “mountain” and was one of the epithets of the goddess Artemis, who was often identified with Selene [4]. The name Phoebe is also associated with Selene, as it was one of her epithets in Greek mythology [4].
Overall, Selene is a beautiful and meaningful name with a rich history and a strong connection to the moon and goddesses in Greek mythology.
Meaning of Selene
Selene is a Greek name that means “moon goddess”. It is derived from the Greek word “selas” which means “light” or “brightness”.
In Greek mythology, Selene was the goddess of the moon, sister of Helios the sun god. She was often depicted as a beautiful woman with a crown of the moon on her head, riding a chariot pulled by two horses. Selene was also known as the goddess of the night, as the moon was believed to be her chariot that illuminated the darkness.
The name Selene has been used throughout history, and it is still a popular name choice for baby girls. It is a name that exudes mystery, beauty, and strength.
Here are some other interesting facts about the name Selene:
- Selene is sometimes called Cynthia and Phoebe.
- The Latin variation of Selene, Selena, is used more often in the US these days.
- Selene was a Titan in Greek mythology, the daughter of Hyperion and Theia.
- Selene was also sometimes identified with the goddess Artemis, who was the goddess of the hunt, wild animals, and childbirth.
Overall, Selene is a name with a rich history and a beautiful meaning. It is a wonderful choice for parents who are looking for a unique and meaningful name for their baby girl.
Popularity of Selene
Selene is a beautiful and unique name that has been steadily rising in popularity over the years. According to the Social Security Administration, Selene was the 992nd most popular name for baby girls in the United States in 2020.
While it may not be the most common name, Selene has been gaining popularity in recent years. In 2010, it was ranked 1,608th, and by 2019 it had climbed up to 1,017th. This steady increase in popularity shows that more and more parents are choosing Selene as the perfect name for their little ones.
Selene is also a popular name in other countries. In Greece, where the name originates from, it is a common name for girls. It is also a popular name in Spain, where it is spelled Selena.
One reason for Selene’s growing popularity may be due to its association with the moon. Selene is the Greek goddess of the moon, and the name itself means “moon goddess”. This celestial connection gives the name a mystical and enchanting quality that many parents find appealing.
Overall, while Selene may not be a top 10 name, it is a unique and beautiful choice for parents looking for something a little different. Its steady rise in popularity shows that more and more people are discovering the beauty and charm of this celestial name.
Cultural References
Selene in Greek Mythology
In Greek mythology, Selene was the goddess of the moon and was often depicted as a beautiful woman with a crescent moon on her forehead. She was the daughter of Titans Hyperion and Theia and sister of the sun god Helios and the dawn goddess Eos. Selene was also associated with the tides and was believed to have the power to control them.
Selene in Popular Culture
The name Selene has been used in various works of literature, music, and film. In the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer, Selene is the name of a vampire who is a member of the Volturi, an ancient and powerful vampire coven. In the Underworld film series, Selene is the main character, a vampire warrior who fights against werewolves.
The name Selene has also been used in music. In the song “Selene” by Imagine Dragons, the lyrics reference the goddess of the moon and her beauty. The name has also been used by various bands and artists, including Selena Gomez, who was named after the goddess.
In conclusion, the name Selene has a rich cultural history and has been used in various works of literature, music, and film. Its association with the goddess of the moon has made it a popular choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child.
Famous People Named Selene
The name Selene has been used by several notable individuals throughout history. Here are some of the most famous people named Selene:
- Selene Caramazza: An Italian actress who has appeared in several films and television shows.
- Selene Delgado: A Venezuelan model and beauty pageant titleholder who won the Miss Venezuela International title in 2015.
- Selene Luna: An American actress, comedian, burlesque performer, and model who has appeared in films such as “My Bloody Valentine 3D” and “Celebrity Circus”.
- Selene Vigil: An American singer and musician who is best known as the lead vocalist for the punk rock band 7 Year Bitch.
These individuals have all made significant contributions to their respective fields and have helped to popularize the name Selene. Whether you are a fan of film, music, or beauty pageants, there is sure to be a Selene who has made an impact in your area of interest.
Variations of Selene
Selene is a beautiful name with a rich history and meaning. As with many names, there are variations of Selene that are used in different cultures and languages. Here are some of the most popular variations of Selene:
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Selena: This Latin variation of Selene is commonly used in the United States. It means “moon goddess” and has a smooth, sensual sound to it. Selena was also the name of a famous Tejano singer, Selena Quintanilla.
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Cynthia: Another Greek name that is sometimes used as a variation of Selene is Cynthia. It means “moon goddess” or “woman from Kynthos” and was the epithet given to Artemis, the goddess of the hunt and the moon.
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Luna: This Spanish and Italian name means “moon” and is a popular variation of Selene. It has a soft, lyrical sound to it and is a great option for parents who want a name that is both beautiful and meaningful.
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Phoebe: Phoebe is a Greek name that means “bright, shining one” and is sometimes used as a variation of Selene. In Greek mythology, Phoebe was one of the Titans and the grandmother of Apollo and Artemis.
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Selenia: Selenia is a modern variation of Selene that has become popular in recent years. It has a unique and exotic sound to it and is a great option for parents who want a name that is both traditional and modern.
Overall, Selene is a beautiful name with many variations that can be used to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer the classic sound of Selena or the modern twist of Selenia, there is a variation of Selene that is perfect for your little one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good nicknames for Selene?
Some good nicknames for Selene include Lena, Selena, Seli, and Elle.
Is Selene a popular name?
Selene is not a very popular name, but it has been gaining popularity in recent years. According to Nameberry, it was ranked #785 in popularity in 2021.
What is the meaning of Selene’s name?
The name Selene means “moon goddess” in Greek. It is derived from the Greek word “selas,” which means light.
What are some variations of the name Selene?
Some variations of the name Selene include Selena, Selina, and Salena.
What is the origin of Selene’s name?
The name Selene has Greek origins. Selene was the Greek goddess of the moon, sister of Helios the sun god. In Roman mythology, Selene was known as Luna.
What are some names that pair well with Selene?
Some names that pair well with Selene include Aurora, Luna, Charlotte, Scarlett, Sophia, Violet, Chloe, Liam, Sebastian, Alexander, Gabriel, Oliver, Owen, and Lucas.