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Penelope
Pronounced puh-NEL-uh-pee /pəˈnɛl.ə.pi/High
Meaning: Weaver; possibly from Greek pene (bobbin) and ops (face/voice)Medium
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Penelope comes from the Greek, possibly from pene (bobbin, thread) and ops (face, voice) — though the exact etymology is debated. She is the faithful wife of Odysseus in Homer's Odyssey, celebrated for her cleverness and fidelity during the twenty years of her husband's absence.
The name was used in classical antiquity and remained in literary circulation throughout European history. In English it gained use through the Renaissance and was steady through the 18th and 19th centuries. After a mid-20th century decline it staged a strong revival, entering the U.S. top 30 around 2013 and the top 20 by the 2020s.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Penelope Cruz (1974–)Spanish actress, Academy Award winner.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Penelope mean?
Penelope is of Greek origin, possibly meaning 'weaver' from the root pene (bobbin). Her most famous bearer is the clever, faithful wife of Odysseus in Homer's Odyssey.
How do you pronounce Penelope?
Penelope is said puh-NEL-uh-pee /pəˈnɛl.ə.pi/ — four syllables, with stress on the second.
Is Penelope a boy or girl name?
Penelope is used exclusively as a girl's name.
How popular is Penelope?
Penelope entered the U.S. top 20 girls' names by the early 2020s after a decade-long surge, appreciated for its classical grandeur and the friendly nickname Penny.