Ophelia

What does the baby name Ophelia mean? Learn about what Ophelia means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Ophelia - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Ophelia: O-P-H-E-L-I-A, is a 7-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Ophelia: o-FEEL-yə; o FEE lee ah
Meaning of Ophelia: Helper, helpful woman.
Origin of Ophelia: The name 'Ophelia' finds its origins in ancient Greece. It is derived from the Greek word 'ophelos', meaning 'help' or 'aid'. 'Ophelia' also has ties to the Greek word 'ophelimos', which translates to 'profitable' or 'useful'. The earliest known use of the name can be traced back to Greek mythology, where 'Ophelia' was a character in the works of the tragedian Sophocles.; French Names; Gothic Names; Greek Names; Literary Names; Shakespeare Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Ophelia: Ophelie; Phelia
Popularity of Ophelia: Over the course of history, the popularity of the name 'Ophelia' has experienced fluctuations. In the late 19th century, 'Ophelia' reached its peak in popularity, with a notable spike in usage. This surge can be attributed to the influence of Shakespeare 's renowned play, 'Hamlet', in which 'Ophelia' is a central character. However, in recent times, the name has seen a decline in popularity, perhaps due to evolving naming trends and preferences.; Ophelia currently has 194 likes, and is in the top 4% of liked girl's names. The name Jemima is slightly more popular than Ophelia.

Etymology of Ophelia

Delving into the linguistic roots of the name 'Ophelia', we find that it has its origins in ancient Greek. The name is a combination of 'ophelos', meaning 'help' or 'aid', and the suffix '-ia', which denotes a state or condition. Therefore, 'Ophelia' can be interpreted as 'the state of being helpful' or 'the condition of providing aid'. This etymology reflects the positive connotations associated with the name.

Cultural Significance of Ophelia

'Ophelia' holds cultural significance in various contexts. In literature, the character of 'Ophelia' in Shakespeare 's 'Hamlet' represents innocence, vulnerability, and tragic love. Her name has become synonymous with these qualities, making it a symbol of delicate beauty and emotional turmoil. Furthermore, 'Ophelia' has also been used as a name in various artistic and musical works, further cementing its cultural significance.