Metis: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Mē̂tis (Μῆτις),” meaning “cunningness, wisdom, craft, skill".It derives from the Greek word "Mē̂tis".
In Greek tradition, Metis holds special significance as a feminine name representing This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Mē̂tis (Μῆτις),” meaning “cunningness, wisdom, craft, skill. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Greek culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.
Quick Facts About Metis
Quick facts about Metis
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 “Mē̂tis (Μῆτις),” meaning “cunningness, wisdom, craft, skill.” Metis was a titan of good counsel, advice, planning, cunning, craftiness and wisdom, and mother of Athena. Metis was of the titan generation and, like several primordial figures, an Oceanid, in the sense that metis was born of Oceanus and Tethys at an earlier age than Zeus and his siblings. Metis was the first great spouse of Zeus.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Mē̂tis
Other Scripts
Greek (Μῆτις)
How to Pronounce Metis
Metis is pronounced /ˈmɛ.tɪs/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Met-is
Say it like: "MET-IS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Metis is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
english
Frequently Asked Questions About Metis
What does the name Metis mean?
Metis means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Mē̂tis (Μῆτις),” meaning “cunningness, wisdom, craft, skill.” Metis was a titan of good counsel, advice, planning, cunning, craftiness and wisdom, and mother of Athena. Metis was of the titan generation and, like several primordial figures, an Oceanid, in the sense that metis was born of Oceanus and Tethys at an earlier age than Zeus and his siblings. Metis was the first great spouse of Zeus.". The name comes from Mē̂tis. In its original form, the name derives from Mē̂tis (Μῆτις). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Metis for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Mē̂tis (Μῆτις),” meaning “cunningness, wisdom, craft, skill.” Metis was a titan of good counsel, advice, planning, cunning, craftiness and wisdom, and mother of Athena. Metis was of the titan generation and, like several primordial figures, an Oceanid, in the sense that metis was born of Oceanus and Tethys at an earlier age than Zeus and his siblings. Metis was the first great spouse of Zeus." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Metis'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 (TITANS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Metis?
Metis is a greek name. The name traces back to Mē̂tis. The original form Mē̂tis (Μῆτις) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Metis is written as Greek (Μῆτις). The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Mē̂tis (Μῆτις),” meaning “cunningness, wisdom, craft, skill.” Metis was a titan of good counsel, advice, planning, cunning, craftiness and wisdom, and mother of Athena. Metis was of the titan generation and, like several primordial figures, an Oceanid, in the sense that metis was born of Oceanus and Tethys at an earlier age than Zeus and his siblings. Metis was the first great spouse of Zeus." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Metis a boy or girl name?
Metis 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, Metis has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Mē̂tis (Μῆτις),” meaning “cunningness, wisdom, craft, skill.” Metis was a titan of good counsel, advice, planning, cunning, craftiness and wisdom, and mother of Athena. Metis was of the titan generation and, like several primordial figures, an Oceanid, in the sense that metis was born of Oceanus and Tethys at an earlier age than Zeus and his siblings. Metis was the first great spouse of Zeus." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Metis?
Metis is pronounced "/ˈmɛ.tɪs/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Greek (Μῆτις), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Metis is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Metis can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Mē̂tis influences how Metis sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Metis?
Metis is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Metis offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Metis'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 “Mē̂tis (Μῆτις),” meaning “cunningness, wisdom, craft, skill.” Metis was a titan of good counsel, advice, planning, cunning, craftiness and wisdom, and mother of Athena. Metis was of the titan generation and, like several primordial figures, an Oceanid, in the sense that metis was born of Oceanus and Tethys at an earlier age than Zeus and his siblings. Metis was the first great spouse of Zeus." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Metis holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Metis commonly used?
Metis is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Metis found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Mē̂tis (Μῆτις),” meaning “cunningness, wisdom, craft, skill.” Metis was a titan of good counsel, advice, planning, cunning, craftiness and wisdom, and mother of Athena. Metis was of the titan generation and, like several primordial figures, an Oceanid, in the sense that metis was born of Oceanus and Tethys at an earlier age than Zeus and his siblings. Metis was the first great spouse of Zeus." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Metis into their naming traditions. A child named Metis 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, Metis is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Metis?
Metis carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (TITANS). 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 “Mē̂tis (Μῆτις),” meaning “cunningness, wisdom, craft, skill.” Metis was a titan of good counsel, advice, planning, cunning, craftiness and wisdom, and mother of Athena. Metis was of the titan generation and, like several primordial figures, an Oceanid, in the sense that metis was born of Oceanus and Tethys at an earlier age than Zeus and his siblings. Metis was the first great spouse of Zeus." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Metis 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 Metis sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Metis 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.