Meaning & History
Alcione is the Portuguese form of Alcyone, which in turn derives from the Latinized Greek name Alkyone (Ἀλκυόνη), ultimately from the Greek word alkyón (ἀλκυών), meaning "kingfisher."
Etymology
Alcyone comes from Ancient Greek Ἀλκυόνη (Alkuónē), via Latin Alcyonē. The name is more commonly seen as "Alcyone" in astronomical and mythological contexts. The word alkyón is also the root of the English "halcyon," which refers to a period of peace (in allusion to the myth that the kingfisher calmed the waves).
Mythology
In Greek mythology, Alcyone was one of the Pleiades, the seven daughters of Atlas and Pleione. They were nymphs who, pursued by Orion, were transformed into stars. Alcyone is the brightest star in the Pleiades cluster in the constellation Taurus. Another Alcyone was the daughter of Aeolus and wife of Ceyx. According to myth, Ceyx died in a shipwreck, and Alcyone
An Alcyone was the daughter of Aeolus and wife of Ceyx. According to some accounts, after Ceyx threw herself into the sea upon hearing of her husband, the gods took pity on them and turned both into kingfishers. The phrase "halcyon days" refers to the seven winter days when the birds were said to calm the seas.Usage in Portuguese
Though not common, Alcione has some informal usage as a given name in Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly Brazil. It echoes the astronomical and mythological connotations of its root name.
- Meaning: "kingfisher" (referring to the bird)
- Origin: Portuguese form of Greek Alcyone
- Type: Given name (feminine)
- Usage regions: Portugal, Brazil
- Related forms: Alcyone, Alkyone, Halcyone
Related Names
Sources: Wiktionary — Alcione