Cynthia - Female Name Meaning and Origin
- Origin
- Greek
- Meaning
- Woman from Kynthos
- Pronunciation
- SIN-thee-uh
- Gender
- Female
- Variations
- Cindy, Cyndi, Cyndie
- Notable Namesakes
- Cynthia Nixon (American actress known for Sex and the City)
- Cynthia Rhodes (American actress and dancer in Flashdance and Dirty Dancing)
Looking for name ideas? Try our name generators right here on NamingQuest.
Etymology & Heritage
Cynthia is steeped in Greek mythology, emerging as a derivative of Kynthia, a term which translates to woman from Kynthos. Kynthos was a mountain on the Greek island of Delos, known as the birthplace of Artemis, the Greek goddess of nature, hunt, and most fittingly the moon.
The name made its way into the literary realm, widely used as a poetic pseudonym for Artemis. It was notably employed by the Roman poet Propertius, and later by the English pastoral poet Richard Barnfield, cementing its place in classical literature.
Character & Essence
Cynthia carries an air of classical elegance, conjuring images of moonlit nights and the captivating mysteries of the ancient world. The name's association with the moon might lend it an ethereal, serene quality, a nod to Artemis' own lunar dominion.
There's a timeless beauty to the name Cynthia, as it echoes through the centuries, linking its bearers to a sophisticated past. Today, it is also associated with values of creativity, independence, and intelligence, influenced by the real-life accomplishments of notable women named Cynthia across various fields.
Cultural & Contemporary Significance
The name's frequent usage in the 20th century made it familiar, yet it retains enough of its mythical glamour to feel fresh and distinct. Among the famous bearers of the name are American actresses who have left their mark on popular culture and entertainment.
The fact that the name Cynthia is less common in today's naming trends only adds to its charm, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a name that combines classical resonance, a unique tinge of ancient mythology, and a dash of refined femininity.