Pasiphaë: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pasipháē (Πασιφάη)".It derives from the Greek word "Pasipháē".
In Greek tradition, Pasiphaë holds special significance as a feminine name representing This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pasipháē (Πασιφάη). 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 Pasiphaë
Quick facts about Pasiphaë
Origin
Greek
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Uncommon
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 “Pasipháē (Πασιφάη).” In Greek mythology, Pasiphaë was an immortal daughter of the sun-god Helios, the Sun, by the Oceanids’ eldest, Perse. Like her two siblings, Aeetes and Kirke, she possessed the powers of witchcraft. Pasiphae wed King Minos of Krete and bore him many sons and daughters. However, as punishment for some offense against the gods committed either by herself or her husband, she was cursed with the desire to be coupled with the king’s most excellent bull.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Pasipháē
How to Pronounce Pasiphaë
Pasiphaë is pronounced /ˈpæs.ɪ.fə.i/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Pas-iphaë
Say it like: "PAS-IPHAË"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across ancient Greek (Latinized), and dutch speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
ancient Greek (Latinized)dutch
Frequently Asked Questions About Pasiphaë
What does the name Pasiphaë mean?
Pasiphaë means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pasipháē (Πασιφάη).” In Greek mythology, Pasiphaë was an immortal daughter of the sun-god Helios, the Sun, by the Oceanids’ eldest, Perse. Like her two siblings, Aeetes and Kirke, she possessed the powers of witchcraft. Pasiphae wed King Minos of Krete and bore him many sons and daughters. However, as punishment for some offense against the gods committed either by herself or her husband, she was cursed with the desire to be coupled with the king’s most excellent bull.". The name comes from Pasipháē. In its original form, the name derives from Pasipháē (Πασιφάη). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Pasiphaë for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pasipháē (Πασιφάη).” In Greek mythology, Pasiphaë was an immortal daughter of the sun-god Helios, the Sun, by the Oceanids’ eldest, Perse. Like her two siblings, Aeetes and Kirke, she possessed the powers of witchcraft. Pasiphae wed King Minos of Krete and bore him many sons and daughters. However, as punishment for some offense against the gods committed either by herself or her husband, she was cursed with the desire to be coupled with the king’s most excellent bull." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Pasiphaë offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. The name is associated with qualities like GREEK MYTHOLOGY (MINOR FIGURES), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Pasiphaë?
Pasiphaë is a greek name. The name traces back to Pasipháē. The original form Pasipháē (Πασιφάη) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Pasiphaë spread to become common in ancient Greek (Latinized), dutch. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pasipháē (Πασιφάη).” In Greek mythology, Pasiphaë was an immortal daughter of the sun-god Helios, the Sun, by the Oceanids’ eldest, Perse. Like her two siblings, Aeetes and Kirke, she possessed the powers of witchcraft. Pasiphae wed King Minos of Krete and bore him many sons and daughters. However, as punishment for some offense against the gods committed either by herself or her husband, she was cursed with the desire to be coupled with the king’s most excellent bull." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Pasiphaë a boy or girl name?
Pasiphaë 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, Pasiphaë has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pasipháē (Πασιφάη).” In Greek mythology, Pasiphaë was an immortal daughter of the sun-god Helios, the Sun, by the Oceanids’ eldest, Perse. Like her two siblings, Aeetes and Kirke, she possessed the powers of witchcraft. Pasiphae wed King Minos of Krete and bore him many sons and daughters. However, as punishment for some offense against the gods committed either by herself or her husband, she was cursed with the desire to be coupled with the king’s most excellent bull." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Pasiphaë?
Pasiphaë is pronounced "/ˈpæs.ɪ.fə.i/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Pasiphaë is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in ancient Greek (Latinized), dutch, 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 Pasiphaë can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Pasipháē influences how Pasiphaë sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Pasiphaë?
Pasiphaë is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Pasiphaë gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Pasiphaë'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 “Pasipháē (Πασιφάη).” In Greek mythology, Pasiphaë was an immortal daughter of the sun-god Helios, the Sun, by the Oceanids’ eldest, Perse. Like her two siblings, Aeetes and Kirke, she possessed the powers of witchcraft. Pasiphae wed King Minos of Krete and bore him many sons and daughters. However, as punishment for some offense against the gods committed either by herself or her husband, she was cursed with the desire to be coupled with the king’s most excellent bull." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Pasiphaë holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Pasiphaë commonly used?
Pasiphaë is common in ancient Greek (Latinized) and dutch naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Pasiphaë found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pasipháē (Πασιφάη).” In Greek mythology, Pasiphaë was an immortal daughter of the sun-god Helios, the Sun, by the Oceanids’ eldest, Perse. Like her two siblings, Aeetes and Kirke, she possessed the powers of witchcraft. Pasiphae wed King Minos of Krete and bore him many sons and daughters. However, as punishment for some offense against the gods committed either by herself or her husband, she was cursed with the desire to be coupled with the king’s most excellent bull." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Pasiphaë into their naming traditions. A child named Pasiphaë 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, Pasiphaë is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Pasiphaë?
Pasiphaë carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (MINOR FIGURES). 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 “Pasipháē (Πασιφάη).” In Greek mythology, Pasiphaë was an immortal daughter of the sun-god Helios, the Sun, by the Oceanids’ eldest, Perse. Like her two siblings, Aeetes and Kirke, she possessed the powers of witchcraft. Pasiphae wed King Minos of Krete and bore him many sons and daughters. However, as punishment for some offense against the gods committed either by herself or her husband, she was cursed with the desire to be coupled with the king’s most excellent bull." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Pasiphaë 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 Pasiphaë sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Pasiphaë 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.