Penelope

At a Glance

Meaning

Uncertain; possibly linked to a Greek word for a duck species

Origin

Greek

Gender

Girl

Pronunciation

puh-NEL-oh-peeListen

Penelope is a Greek name pronounced puh-NEL-oh-pee, and it has a classic feel rather than any particular style. You may have come across the claim that it means "weaver," a nod to the weaving trick from Homer's Odyssey — but that's a popular guess rather than a confirmed root; sources point instead to a possible link with a Greek word for a species of duck. Its exact meaning remains uncertain.

Meaning & Origin of Penelope

Meaning: Uncertain; possibly linked to a Greek word for a duck species.

Origin: Greek.

A common claim: Penelope means 'weaver', referencing her weaving trick in Homer's Odyssey Actually: 'Weaver' is a popular folk etymology inspired by the myth, not a confirmed root. The name may instead be connected to a Greek word for a duck species.

Source: Wiktionary.

How to Pronounce Penelope

Popularity of Penelope

Penelope peaked at #21 in 2022, when 6,424 babies were given the name, and by 2024 it had eased to #28 with 5,741 babies — a small step down but still a well-used name.

Names Like Penelope

These names share Penelope’s style, era or origin.

• Alexandra
• Alexandria
• Anastasia
• Andrea
• Angela
• Athena

FAQ

What does the name Penelope mean?

Uncertain; possibly linked to a Greek word for a duck species. (Source: Wiktionary)

How do you pronounce Penelope?

Penelope is pronounced puh-NEL-oh-pee (IPA: /pəˈnɛləpi/).

Is Penelope a popular name right now?

Penelope peaked at #21 in 2022 and is ranked #28 as of 2024. (U.S. Social Security Administration data, 1880–2024.)

Make Penelope Name Art

Free printable nursery art for Penelope, pre-loaded below — pick a layout, palette, and font, then download a print-ready PNG.