Girl · 119th of 30,306
Athena
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
50,614
Total Births
145
Years of Data
2022
Peak Popularity Year
3,025
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Athena stands across generations
Rankings for U.S. births from 2013 to 2024.
Based on the most recent three-year movement in the national data.
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Meaning, origin & U.S. popularity
Summary
The name Athena has its origins in Greek culture, linked to the goddess of wisdom and warfare. Its meaning encompasses wisdom and strategy. The name has evolved from its ancient Greek form to modern adaptations. It is often viewed as a symbol of strength and intelligence, with no specific biblical relevance. The name has historical significance and remains popular in contemporary society.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/əˈθiː.nə/
Origin
Greek
Etymology
The name Athena is derived from the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom, warfare, and strategy. It is often associated with the city of Athens, which was named in her honor.
Meaning
wisdom, warfare, strategy
Language Evolution
Αθηνά (Athena) in Ancient Greek, Athena in Latin, Athena in Modern English
Historical Usage
The name Athena gained popularity in ancient Greece, particularly in the context of worship and reverence for the goddess. It remains a common name in various cultures today.
Variants & Derivatives
Athene, Athenae, Athenia
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, the name Athena is perceived as strong and intelligent, often associated with empowerment and wisdom.
Famous People
Athenaeus of Naucratis, a Greek rhetorician, Athena Lee, an American drummer, Athena Karkanis, a Canadian actress
Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Rising
25-Year Trend:
Consistently Rising
Explore popularity by location
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Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Highly Popular name with 3,025 peak births in 2022
Geographic Spread
Popular across 51 US states, with strongest presence in Nevada
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 7 different American generations with varying popularity
Alternative spellings & similar sounds
Compare 1 names that share a similar pronunciation but use different spellings.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Full popularity table across American generations 7 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Girl | 1432nd of 9107 | 536 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Girl | 1639th of 9204 | 435 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 1111th of 12526 | 1,618 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 681st of 19264 | 3,714 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 695th of 27321 | 4,547 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 455th of 35406 | 10,634 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 119th of 30306 | 29,130 |