Selene

Girl Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/səˈliː.ni/

Selene: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon". It derives from the Greek word "Selḗnē".

The name Selene carries a rich history rooted in Greek culture. Derived from "Selḗnē", this feminine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Greek-speaking communities.

Quick Facts About Selene

Quick facts about Selene
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 “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”

Etymology & Details

Name Root

Selḗnē

Other Scripts

Greek (Σελήνη)

How to Pronounce Selene

Selene is pronounced /səˈliː.ni/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Sel-en-e
  2. Say it like: "SEL-EN-E"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

This name has found popularity across english, italian, and latin speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.

englishitalianlatin
Frequently Asked Questions About Selene
What does the name Selene mean?
Selene means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”". The name comes from Selḗnē. In its original form, the name derives from Selḗnē (Σελήνη). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Selene for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”" as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Selene'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 Selene?
Selene is a greek name. The name traces back to Selḗnē. The original form Selḗnē (Σελήνη) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Selene is written as Greek (Σελήνη). From its greek roots, Selene spread to become common in english, italian, latin. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”" reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Selene a boy or girl name?
Selene 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, Selene has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”" carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Selene?
Selene is pronounced "/səˈliː.ni/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Greek (Σελήνη), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Selene is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, italian, latin, 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 Selene can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Selḗnē influences how Selene sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Selene?
Selene is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Selene offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Selene'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 “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”" likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Selene holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Selene commonly used?
Selene is common in english and italian and latin naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Selene found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Selene, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”" carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Selene into their naming traditions. A child named Selene 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, Selene is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Selene?
Selene 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 “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”" reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Selene 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 Selene sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Selene 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.

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