What Does The Name Athena Mean?

The name Athena is a female name that has originated from Greek mythology. The meaning of this name is not clear, it may possible have derived from the Greek word meaning sharp – 'ather' and the word for praised – 'aine'.

Athena is the name of the Greek goddess of wisdom, warfare and handicraft. She is one of the offspring of Zeus. She is popularly linked and portrayed with the olive tree and the owl. The capital city of Greece, Athens, is named after her; she is the patroness of Athens. The Roman Equivalent of Athena would be the goddess Minerva.

In the Iliad she is depicted as having fought side by side with Greek heroes. She symbolised the assets of justice and skill in battle, contrary to the raw blood lust of Ares. Her birth and rivalry with Poseidon for rule of Athens is depicted on the Parthenon. Her birthday is popularly celebrated as the Panathenaea festival.