Daphne (DAFF-nee) is a female given name of Greek origin, meaning "laurel" in Greek. In Greek mythology, Daphne was a nymph, the daughter of the river god Peneus (or Ladon in some accounts). She was pursued by the god Apollo, who was infatuated with her after being struck by Eros's arrow. Fleeing his advances, Daphne prayed for help and was transformed into a laurel tree by her father. As a result, Apollo adopted the laurel as his sacred plant, and it became a symbol of victory and honor. Etymology and Linguistic Variations The name Daphne comes from the Ancient Greek δάφνη (dáphnē), meaning "laurel" or "bay tree." The laurel was prized in antiquity for its use in wreaths awarded to victors in athletic competitions, such as the Pythian Games in Delphi, and later to poets, generals, and emperors. The botanical genus Daphne (e.g., spurge laurel) takes its name from the myth. The name has various forms in different languages: Dafne in Italian and Spanish, Daphné or Daphnée in French, Dafni in modern Greek, Dafna in Hebrew, and Dafina in Macedonian. History and Usage In the English-speaking world, Daphne gained popularity as a given name in the late 19th century. It was relatively rare before then, often associated with the mythological figure. The name experienced a resurgence in the 20th century, likely influenced by literature such as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's short story "The Adventure of the Sussex Vampire" (featuring a character named Daphne) and the popular novel and film Rebecca (1940), where it was not a main name but appeared in dialogue. Notable Bearers Daphne du Maurier (1907–1989), English author and playwright best known for Rebecca. Daphne Zuniga (born 1962), American actress known for Melrose Place and The Sure Thing. Daphne Rubin-Vega (born 1969), Panamanian-American actress, singer, and dancer. Daphne, Lady Du Maurier – aristocrat and mother of the novelist. Cultural Significance The laurel wreath, stemming from the myth of Daphne, remains a symbol of achievement in many contexts, from Olympic medals to the title of Poet Laureate. The name thus carries connotations of honor, poetic inspiration, and transformation. It appears in classical art and literature, notably in Ovid's Metamorphoses and in poetry by Petrarch and other Renaissance writers. Summary Meaning: Laurel Origin: Greek mythology Type: Given name Usage: Dutch, English, Greek; also in French, Italian, Spanish, Hebrew, Macedonian Related: root from Apollo; variants Dafne, Daphné, Dafni, Dafna