Circe: a female name of Greek origin meaning "Cersei is a Created name probably based on the Ancient Greek name “Kírkē (Κίρκη)".It derives from the Greek word "Kírkē".
Circe has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Greek roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "Cersei is a Created name probably based on the Ancient Greek name “Kírkē (Κίρκη)" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Circe
Quick facts about Circe
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
Cersei is a Created name probably based on the Ancient Greek name “Kírkē (Κίρκη).” Cersei Lannister: character name created by George R.R. Martin for his “Song of Ice and Fire” novels and Game of Thrones TV series. In Greek mythology, Circe (Greek: Kírkē “Κίρκη”) was a goddess of magic (or sometimes a nymph, witch, enchantress or sorceress). By most accounts, Circe was the daughter of Helios, the god of the sun, and Perse, an Oceanid. Her brothers were Aeetes, the keeper of the Golden Fleece, and Perses.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Kírkē
How to Pronounce Circe
Circe is pronounced /ˈsɜːr.seɪ/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Cir-ce
Say it like: "CIR-CE"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Circe enjoys international appeal, used in 4 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, spanish, italian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
englishspanishitalianportuguese
Frequently Asked Questions About Circe
What does the name Circe mean?
Circe means "Cersei is a Created name probably based on the Ancient Greek name “Kírkē (Κίρκη).” Cersei Lannister: character name created by George R.R. Martin for his “Song of Ice and Fire” novels and Game of Thrones TV series. In Greek mythology, Circe (Greek: Kírkē “Κίρκη”) was a goddess of magic (or sometimes a nymph, witch, enchantress or sorceress). By most accounts, Circe was the daughter of Helios, the god of the sun, and Perse, an Oceanid. Her brothers were Aeetes, the keeper of the Golden Fleece, and Perses.". The name comes from Kírkē. In its original form, the name derives from Kírkē (Κίρκη). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Circe for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "Cersei is a Created name probably based on the Ancient Greek name “Kírkē (Κίρκη).” Cersei Lannister: character name created by George R.R. Martin for his “Song of Ice and Fire” novels and Game of Thrones TV series. In Greek mythology, Circe (Greek: Kírkē “Κίρκη”) was a goddess of magic (or sometimes a nymph, witch, enchantress or sorceress). By most accounts, Circe was the daughter of Helios, the god of the sun, and Perse, an Oceanid. Her brothers were Aeetes, the keeper of the Golden Fleece, and Perses." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Circe'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, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Circe?
Circe is a greek name. The name traces back to Kírkē. The original form Kírkē (Κίρκη) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Circe spread to become common in english, spanish, italian, portuguese. The greek meaning "Cersei is a Created name probably based on the Ancient Greek name “Kírkē (Κίρκη).” Cersei Lannister: character name created by George R.R. Martin for his “Song of Ice and Fire” novels and Game of Thrones TV series. In Greek mythology, Circe (Greek: Kírkē “Κίρκη”) was a goddess of magic (or sometimes a nymph, witch, enchantress or sorceress). By most accounts, Circe was the daughter of Helios, the god of the sun, and Perse, an Oceanid. Her brothers were Aeetes, the keeper of the Golden Fleece, and Perses." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Circe a boy or girl name?
Circe 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, Circe has historically been given to girls. The meaning "Cersei is a Created name probably based on the Ancient Greek name “Kírkē (Κίρκη).” Cersei Lannister: character name created by George R.R. Martin for his “Song of Ice and Fire” novels and Game of Thrones TV series. In Greek mythology, Circe (Greek: Kírkē “Κίρκη”) was a goddess of magic (or sometimes a nymph, witch, enchantress or sorceress). By most accounts, Circe was the daughter of Helios, the god of the sun, and Perse, an Oceanid. Her brothers were Aeetes, the keeper of the Golden Fleece, and Perses." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Circe?
Circe is pronounced "/ˈsɜːr.seɪ/". This pronunciation follows gr language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Circe is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, spanish, italian, 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 Circe can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Kírkē influences how Circe sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Circe?
Circe is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Circe offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Circe's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "Cersei is a Created name probably based on the Ancient Greek name “Kírkē (Κίρκη).” Cersei Lannister: character name created by George R.R. Martin for his “Song of Ice and Fire” novels and Game of Thrones TV series. In Greek mythology, Circe (Greek: Kírkē “Κίρκη”) was a goddess of magic (or sometimes a nymph, witch, enchantress or sorceress). By most accounts, Circe was the daughter of Helios, the god of the sun, and Perse, an Oceanid. Her brothers were Aeetes, the keeper of the Golden Fleece, and Perses." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Circe holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Circe commonly used?
Circe spans multiple cultures, including english, spanish, italian, and 1 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Circe found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Circe, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "Cersei is a Created name probably based on the Ancient Greek name “Kírkē (Κίρκη).” Cersei Lannister: character name created by George R.R. Martin for his “Song of Ice and Fire” novels and Game of Thrones TV series. In Greek mythology, Circe (Greek: Kírkē “Κίρκη”) was a goddess of magic (or sometimes a nymph, witch, enchantress or sorceress). By most accounts, Circe was the daughter of Helios, the god of the sun, and Perse, an Oceanid. Her brothers were Aeetes, the keeper of the Golden Fleece, and Perses." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Circe into their naming traditions. A child named Circe 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, Circe is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Circe?
Circe carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "Cersei is a Created name probably based on the Ancient Greek name “Kírkē (Κίρκη).” Cersei Lannister: character name created by George R.R. Martin for his “Song of Ice and Fire” novels and Game of Thrones TV series. In Greek mythology, Circe (Greek: Kírkē “Κίρκη”) was a goddess of magic (or sometimes a nymph, witch, enchantress or sorceress). By most accounts, Circe was the daughter of Helios, the god of the sun, and Perse, an Oceanid. Her brothers were Aeetes, the keeper of the Golden Fleece, and Perses." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Circe 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 Circe sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Circe 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.