Clotho

Girl Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈkloʊ.θoʊ/

Clotho: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Klōthṓ (Κλωθώ),” meaning “spinner, a person occupied in making thread by spinning". It derives from the Greek word "Klōthṓ".

The name Clotho carries a rich history rooted in Greek culture. Derived from "Klōthṓ", this feminine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Klōthṓ (Κλωθώ),” meaning “spinner, a person occupied in making thread by spinning. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Greek-speaking communities.

Quick Facts About Clotho

Quick facts about Clotho
OriginGreek
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately 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 “Klōthṓ (Κλωθώ),” meaning “spinner, a person occupied in making thread by spinning.” Clotho is the youngest of the Three Fates or Moirai, including her sisters Lachesis and Atropos, in ancient Greek mythology. According to Greek mythology, Clotho was Zeus and Themis’s daughter and sister to Lachesis and Atropos. Clotho is also mentioned in the tenth book of the Republic of Plato as the daughter of Necessity. In Roman mythology, it was believed that she was the daughter of Uranus and Gaia.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

Klōthṓ

How to Pronounce Clotho

Clotho is pronounced /ˈkloʊ.θoʊ/(Greek)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Clo-tho
  2. Say it like: "CLO-THO"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Clotho is predominantly used in ancient Greek (Latinized) speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

ancient Greek (Latinized)
Frequently Asked Questions About Clotho
What does the name Clotho mean?
Clotho means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Klōthṓ (Κλωθώ),” meaning “spinner, a person occupied in making thread by spinning.” Clotho is the youngest of the Three Fates or Moirai, including her sisters Lachesis and Atropos, in ancient Greek mythology. According to Greek mythology, Clotho was Zeus and Themis’s daughter and sister to Lachesis and Atropos. Clotho is also mentioned in the tenth book of the Republic of Plato as the daughter of Necessity. In Roman mythology, it was believed that she was the daughter of Uranus and Gaia.". The name comes from Klōthṓ. In its original form, the name derives from Klōthṓ (Κλωθώ). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Clotho for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Klōthṓ (Κλωθώ),” meaning “spinner, a person occupied in making thread by spinning.” Clotho is the youngest of the Three Fates or Moirai, including her sisters Lachesis and Atropos, in ancient Greek mythology. According to Greek mythology, Clotho was Zeus and Themis’s daughter and sister to Lachesis and Atropos. Clotho is also mentioned in the tenth book of the Republic of Plato as the daughter of Necessity. In Roman mythology, it was believed that she was the daughter of Uranus and Gaia." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Clotho'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 (PERSONIFIED CONCEPTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Clotho?
Clotho is a greek name. The name traces back to Klōthṓ. The original form Klōthṓ (Κλωθώ) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to ancient Greek (Latinized) naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Klōthṓ (Κλωθώ),” meaning “spinner, a person occupied in making thread by spinning.” Clotho is the youngest of the Three Fates or Moirai, including her sisters Lachesis and Atropos, in ancient Greek mythology. According to Greek mythology, Clotho was Zeus and Themis’s daughter and sister to Lachesis and Atropos. Clotho is also mentioned in the tenth book of the Republic of Plato as the daughter of Necessity. In Roman mythology, it was believed that she was the daughter of Uranus and Gaia." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Clotho a boy or girl name?
Clotho 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, Clotho has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Klōthṓ (Κλωθώ),” meaning “spinner, a person occupied in making thread by spinning.” Clotho is the youngest of the Three Fates or Moirai, including her sisters Lachesis and Atropos, in ancient Greek mythology. According to Greek mythology, Clotho was Zeus and Themis’s daughter and sister to Lachesis and Atropos. Clotho is also mentioned in the tenth book of the Republic of Plato as the daughter of Necessity. In Roman mythology, it was believed that she was the daughter of Uranus and Gaia." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Clotho?
Clotho is pronounced "/ˈkloʊ.θoʊ/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Clotho is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Clotho can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Klōthṓ influences how Clotho sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Clotho?
Clotho is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Clotho offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Clotho'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 “Klōthṓ (Κλωθώ),” meaning “spinner, a person occupied in making thread by spinning.” Clotho is the youngest of the Three Fates or Moirai, including her sisters Lachesis and Atropos, in ancient Greek mythology. According to Greek mythology, Clotho was Zeus and Themis’s daughter and sister to Lachesis and Atropos. Clotho is also mentioned in the tenth book of the Republic of Plato as the daughter of Necessity. In Roman mythology, it was believed that she was the daughter of Uranus and Gaia." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Clotho holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Clotho commonly used?
Clotho is used primarily in ancient Greek (Latinized) naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Clotho found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Klōthṓ (Κλωθώ),” meaning “spinner, a person occupied in making thread by spinning.” Clotho is the youngest of the Three Fates or Moirai, including her sisters Lachesis and Atropos, in ancient Greek mythology. According to Greek mythology, Clotho was Zeus and Themis’s daughter and sister to Lachesis and Atropos. Clotho is also mentioned in the tenth book of the Republic of Plato as the daughter of Necessity. In Roman mythology, it was believed that she was the daughter of Uranus and Gaia." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Clotho into their naming traditions. A child named Clotho 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, Clotho is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Clotho?
Clotho carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (PERSONIFIED CONCEPTS). 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 “Klōthṓ (Κλωθώ),” meaning “spinner, a person occupied in making thread by spinning.” Clotho is the youngest of the Three Fates or Moirai, including her sisters Lachesis and Atropos, in ancient Greek mythology. According to Greek mythology, Clotho was Zeus and Themis’s daughter and sister to Lachesis and Atropos. Clotho is also mentioned in the tenth book of the Republic of Plato as the daughter of Necessity. In Roman mythology, it was believed that she was the daughter of Uranus and Gaia." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Clotho 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 Clotho sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Clotho often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In ancient Greek (Latinized) 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.

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