Cassandra: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā (Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr (ἀνήρ) andrós (ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male)".It derives from the Greek word "kaínumi / kékasmai anḗr / andrós > Kassándra".
The name Cassandra carries a rich history rooted in Greek culture. Derived from "kaínumi / kékasmai anḗr / andrós > Kassándra", this feminine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā (Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr (ἀνήρ) andrós (ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Greek-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Cassandra
Quick facts about Cassandra
Origin
Greek
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā (Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr (ἀνήρ) andrós (ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
kaínumi / kékasmai anḗr / andrós > Kassándra
How to Pronounce Cassandra
Cassandra is pronounced /kəˈsændrə/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Cas-san-dra
Say it like: "KOOHSANDROOH"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Cassandra enjoys international appeal, used in 7 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, italian, norwegian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
englishitaliannorwegianswedishdanishdutchgerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Cassandra
What does the name Cassandra mean?
Cassandra means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā (Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr (ἀνήρ) andrós (ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander.". The name comes from kaínumi / kékasmai anḗr / andrós > Kassándra. In its original form, the name derives from kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι) anḗr (ἀνήρ) andrós (ἀνδρός) Kassándrā (Κασσάνδρᾱ). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Cassandra for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā (Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr (ἀνήρ) andrós (ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Cassandra's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like GREEK MYTHOLOGY (SEERS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Cassandra?
Cassandra is a greek name. The name traces back to kaínumi / kékasmai anḗr / andrós > Kassándra. The original form kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι) anḗr (ἀνήρ) andrós (ἀνδρός) Kassándrā (Κασσάνδρᾱ) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Cassandra spread to become common in english, italian, norwegian, swedish and other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā (Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr (ἀνήρ) andrós (ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Cassandra a boy or girl name?
Cassandra is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Cassandra has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā (Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr (ἀνήρ) andrós (ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Cassandra?
Cassandra is pronounced "/kəˈsændrə/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Cassandra is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, italian, norwegian, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Cassandra can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root kaínumi / kékasmai anḗr / andrós > Kassándra influences how Cassandra sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Cassandra?
Cassandra is moderately popular with steady usage. With moderate popularity, Cassandra offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Cassandra's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā (Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr (ἀνήρ) andrós (ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Cassandra holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Cassandra commonly used?
Cassandra spans multiple cultures, including english, italian, norwegian, and 4 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Cassandra found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Cassandra, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā (Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr (ἀνήρ) andrós (ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Cassandra into their naming traditions. A child named Cassandra will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Cassandra is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Cassandra?
Cassandra carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (SEERS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā (Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr (ἀνήρ) andrós (ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Cassandra originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Cassandra sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Cassandra often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.