Phaedra: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “phaidrós (φαιδρός) phaídra (φαίδρα),” meaning “brilliant, shiny".It derives from the Greek word "Phaidrós > Phaídra".
Phaedra 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 "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “phaidrós (φαιδρός) phaídra (φαίδρα),” meaning “brilliant, shiny" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Phaedra
Quick facts about Phaedra
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 “phaidrós (φαιδρός) phaídra (φαίδρα),” meaning “brilliant, shiny.” In Greek mythology, Phaedra is the daughter of Minos and Pasiphaë, wife of Theseus, sister of Ariadne, and the mother of Demophon of Athens and Acamas. In one version, Phaedra’s nurse told Hippolytus of her love, and he swore he would not reveal her as a source of information. In revenge, Phaedra wrote Theseus a letter that claimed Hippolytus raped her. Theseus believed her and cursed Hippolytus with one of the three courses he had received from Poseidon.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Phaidrós > Phaídra
How to Pronounce Phaedra
Phaedra is pronounced /ˈfeɪdrə/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Pha-edr-a
Say it like: "FEEEHDROOH"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Phaedra 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 Phaedra
What does the name Phaedra mean?
Phaedra means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “phaidrós (φαιδρός) phaídra (φαίδρα),” meaning “brilliant, shiny.” In Greek mythology, Phaedra is the daughter of Minos and Pasiphaë, wife of Theseus, sister of Ariadne, and the mother of Demophon of Athens and Acamas. In one version, Phaedra’s nurse told Hippolytus of her love, and he swore he would not reveal her as a source of information. In revenge, Phaedra wrote Theseus a letter that claimed Hippolytus raped her. Theseus believed her and cursed Hippolytus with one of the three courses he had received from Poseidon.". The name comes from Phaidrós > Phaídra. In its original form, the name derives from Phaidrós (φαιδρός) Phaídra (Φαίδρα). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Phaedra for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “phaidrós (φαιδρός) phaídra (φαίδρα),” meaning “brilliant, shiny.” In Greek mythology, Phaedra is the daughter of Minos and Pasiphaë, wife of Theseus, sister of Ariadne, and the mother of Demophon of Athens and Acamas. In one version, Phaedra’s nurse told Hippolytus of her love, and he swore he would not reveal her as a source of information. In revenge, Phaedra wrote Theseus a letter that claimed Hippolytus raped her. Theseus believed her and cursed Hippolytus with one of the three courses he had received from Poseidon." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Phaedra'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 (DEIFIED MORTALS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Phaedra?
Phaedra is a greek name. The name traces back to Phaidrós > Phaídra. The original form Phaidrós (φαιδρός) Phaídra (Φαίδρα) 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 “phaidrós (φαιδρός) phaídra (φαίδρα),” meaning “brilliant, shiny.” In Greek mythology, Phaedra is the daughter of Minos and Pasiphaë, wife of Theseus, sister of Ariadne, and the mother of Demophon of Athens and Acamas. In one version, Phaedra’s nurse told Hippolytus of her love, and he swore he would not reveal her as a source of information. In revenge, Phaedra wrote Theseus a letter that claimed Hippolytus raped her. Theseus believed her and cursed Hippolytus with one of the three courses he had received from Poseidon." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Phaedra a boy or girl name?
Phaedra 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, Phaedra has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “phaidrós (φαιδρός) phaídra (φαίδρα),” meaning “brilliant, shiny.” In Greek mythology, Phaedra is the daughter of Minos and Pasiphaë, wife of Theseus, sister of Ariadne, and the mother of Demophon of Athens and Acamas. In one version, Phaedra’s nurse told Hippolytus of her love, and he swore he would not reveal her as a source of information. In revenge, Phaedra wrote Theseus a letter that claimed Hippolytus raped her. Theseus believed her and cursed Hippolytus with one of the three courses he had received from Poseidon." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Phaedra?
Phaedra is pronounced "/ˈfeɪdrə/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Phaedra is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Phaedra can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name. The name's root Phaidrós > Phaídra influences how Phaedra sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Phaedra?
Phaedra is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Phaedra offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Phaedra'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 “phaidrós (φαιδρός) phaídra (φαίδρα),” meaning “brilliant, shiny.” In Greek mythology, Phaedra is the daughter of Minos and Pasiphaë, wife of Theseus, sister of Ariadne, and the mother of Demophon of Athens and Acamas. In one version, Phaedra’s nurse told Hippolytus of her love, and he swore he would not reveal her as a source of information. In revenge, Phaedra wrote Theseus a letter that claimed Hippolytus raped her. Theseus believed her and cursed Hippolytus with one of the three courses he had received from Poseidon." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Phaedra holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Phaedra commonly used?
Phaedra is used primarily in ancient Greek (Latinized) naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Phaedra found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “phaidrós (φαιδρός) phaídra (φαίδρα),” meaning “brilliant, shiny.” In Greek mythology, Phaedra is the daughter of Minos and Pasiphaë, wife of Theseus, sister of Ariadne, and the mother of Demophon of Athens and Acamas. In one version, Phaedra’s nurse told Hippolytus of her love, and he swore he would not reveal her as a source of information. In revenge, Phaedra wrote Theseus a letter that claimed Hippolytus raped her. Theseus believed her and cursed Hippolytus with one of the three courses he had received from Poseidon." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Phaedra into their naming traditions. A child named Phaedra 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, Phaedra is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Phaedra?
Phaedra carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (DEIFIED MORTALS). 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 “phaidrós (φαιδρός) phaídra (φαίδρα),” meaning “brilliant, shiny.” In Greek mythology, Phaedra is the daughter of Minos and Pasiphaë, wife of Theseus, sister of Ariadne, and the mother of Demophon of Athens and Acamas. In one version, Phaedra’s nurse told Hippolytus of her love, and he swore he would not reveal her as a source of information. In revenge, Phaedra wrote Theseus a letter that claimed Hippolytus raped her. Theseus believed her and cursed Hippolytus with one of the three courses he had received from Poseidon." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Phaedra 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 Phaedra sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Phaedra 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.