Amalthea – Name Meaning
The name Amalthea is of Greek origin and is derived from the word “amalthia”, which means “to nourish”. It is a feminine given name that has been used since ancient times. The name has been associated with many different mythological figures, including the goat who nursed Zeus in his infancy.
In Greek mythology, Amalthea was the daughter of King Haemon and Queen Melite. She was a nymph who cared for the infant Zeus on Mount Ida. According to legend, she fed him with her own milk and provided him with shelter and protection. In gratitude, Zeus gave her a horn filled with divine nectar and ambrosia, which could grant any wish.
The name Amalthea is often associated with strength, courage, and nurturing. It can also be seen as a symbol of hope and faithfulness. The name is popular among parents looking for a unique yet meaningful name for their baby girl.
Popularity
The name Amalthea has been steadily increasing in popularity over the past few decades. In 2020, it ranked at #1,845 on the Social Security Administration’s list of most popular baby names in the United States. It is also popular in other countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.
Famous People Named Amalthea
There are several famous people who have been given the name Amalthea throughout history. These include:
- Amalthea of Crete – A princess in Greek mythology who was said to have nursed Zeus as an infant.
- Amalthea Reineck – An Austrian actress who appeared in several films during the 1930s.
- Amalthea Jax – A fictional character from the TV series “Battlestar Galactica”.
Variations of the Name
The name Amalthea can be shortened to Amy or Thea. Other variations include:
- Ammi – A Hebrew variation meaning “beloved”.
- Amalia – A Spanish variation meaning “industrious”.
- Amelie – A French variation meaning “hardworking”.
Conclusion
The name Amalthea is a beautiful and meaningful choice for any baby girl. It carries strong associations with strength, courage, and nurturing qualities. It is also becoming increasingly popular around the world due to its unique sound and interesting history.