Penelope Girl
Origin(s)
Pronunciationpuh-NEL-uh-pee / /pəˈnɛləpi/Greek; Latin
Meaning
Greek: Weaver; Latin: Dreamer
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Penelope has its roots in ancient Greek, derived from the word "pēnē," which means "thread" or "weft," and is often associated with weaving. The earliest recorded use of the name can be traced back to the epic poem "The Odyssey," attributed to Homer in the 8th century BCE, where Penelope is the faithful wife of Odysseus. Her character is emblematic of loyalty and patience, as she waits for her husband's return from the Trojan War while fending off numerous suitors. The name's association with this literary figure contributed to its enduring presence in Western culture.
Throughout history, Penelope has been adopted in various forms across different languages and cultures. In Latin, the name was retained as "Penelope," and it appeared in Roman literature, further solidifying its place in classical tradition. The name was also popularized in medieval Europe, particularly during the Renaissance, when classical texts were rediscovered and celebrated. Notably, the name appears in various translations of the Bible and other significant literary works, reinforcing its cultural significance.
In addition to its literary roots, Penelope has been associated with themes of fidelity and domesticity, often symbolizing the ideal of the devoted wife. This cultural resonance has allowed the name to persist through centuries, appearing in various artistic representations, including paintings and operas. The diminutive form "Penny" has also emerged, reflecting a more casual or affectionate usage, though it is less historically significant than the full name. Overall, Penelope's rich etymological background and historical milestones contribute to its lasting legacy in literature and culture.
Trend Summary
Penelope has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past two decades.
Similar Names
Variants
- Penny
- Nellie
International Variants
- Penélope (Spanish)
- Penelope (Italian)
- Penelopé (French)
Famous people named Penelope
Penelope Cruz is an actress best known for Vicky Cristina Barcelona, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, and Volver.
Penelope Wilton is an actress best known for Downton Abbey, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, and Shaun of the Dead.
Fictional characters named Penelope
Penelope Pitstop is a fictional character from the animated television series Wacky Races. She is a glamorous and resourceful racer known for her pink car and her attempts to outsmart the villainous Dick Dastardly.
Penelope Garcia is a fictional character from the TV series Criminal Minds. She is a technical analyst who provides crucial support to the Behavioral Analysis Unit with her computer skills and quirky personality.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Penelope was first seen in the United States in 1880. Penelope has ranked as high as #68 nationally, which occurred in 2019, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Penelope has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Penelope (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 779 | |
TX | 557 | |
FL | 348 | |
NY | 323 | |
OH | 219 | |
IL | 210 | |
PA | 209 | |
NC | 192 | |
WA | 166 | |
AZ | 164 | |
NJ | 164 | |
VA | 148 | |
MA | 136 | |
IN | 130 | |
GA | 127 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 5 |
1883 | 6 |
1886 | 7 |
1888 | 8 |
1889 | 8 |
1890 | 5 |
1891 | 9 |
1893 | 6 |
1895 | 5 |
1896 | 6 |
1898 | 5 |
1900 | 6 |
1902 | 5 |
1906 | 5 |
1907 | 5 |
1909 | 8 |
1910 | 8 |
1911 | 7 |
1912 | 11 |
1913 | 13 |
1914 | 16 |
1915 | 31 |
1916 | 37 |
1917 | 32 |
1918 | 44 |
1919 | 49 |
1920 | 54 |
1921 | 45 |
1922 | 61 |
1923 | 58 |
1924 | 65 |
1925 | 66 |
1926 | 64 |
1927 | 57 |
1928 | 49 |
1929 | 43 |
1930 | 44 |
1931 | 37 |
1932 | 45 |
1933 | 40 |
1934 | 43 |
1935 | 69 |
1936 | 102 |
1937 | 173 |
1938 | 188 |
1939 | 368 |
1940 | 439 |
1941 | 546 |
1942 | 670 |
1943 | 643 |
1944 | 678 |
1945 | 509 |
1946 | 641 |
1947 | 796 |
1948 | 782 |
1949 | 679 |
1950 | 646 |
1951 | 568 |
1952 | 529 |
1953 | 537 |
1954 | 482 |
1955 | 419 |
1956 | 380 |
1957 | 422 |
1958 | 387 |
1959 | 388 |
1960 | 316 |
1961 | 310 |
1962 | 286 |
1963 | 322 |
1964 | 266 |
1965 | 265 |
1966 | 223 |
1967 | 255 |
1968 | 282 |
1969 | 345 |
1970 | 315 |
1971 | 205 |
1972 | 219 |
1973 | 222 |
1974 | 184 |
1975 | 160 |
1976 | 121 |
1977 | 119 |
1978 | 108 |
1979 | 101 |
1980 | 83 |
1981 | 78 |
1982 | 62 |
1983 | 67 |
1984 | 59 |
1985 | 56 |
1986 | 54 |
1987 | 63 |
1988 | 47 |
1989 | 42 |
1990 | 59 |
1991 | 61 |
1992 | 63 |
1993 | 54 |
1994 | 65 |
1995 | 94 |
1996 | 80 |
1997 | 99 |
1998 | 117 |
1999 | 102 |
2000 | 131 |
2001 | 235 |
2002 | 346 |
2003 | 367 |
2004 | 424 |
2005 | 513 |
2006 | 649 |
2007 | 796 |
2008 | 919 |
2009 | 1,297 |
2010 | 1,547 |
2011 | 1,871 |
2012 | 2,536 |
2013 | 4,292 |
2014 | 5,089 |
2015 | 5,952 |
2016 | 6,397 |
2017 | 6,667 |
2018 | 6,523 |
2019 | 6,733 |
2020 | 6,149 |
2021 | 6,364 |
2022 | 6,424 |
2023 | 6,065 |
2024 | 5,741 |