Arachne

What does the baby name Arachne mean? Learn about what Arachne means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Arachne - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Arachne: A-R-A-C-H-N-E, is a 7-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Arachne: ə-RAK-nee; a RAK nee
Meaning of Arachne: Spider.
Origin of Arachne: The name 'Arachne' finds its roots in ancient Greek mythology. In fact, it is derived from the Greek word 'aráchnē', which means 'spider'. This name is closely associated with the tale of the talented weaver who met a tragic fate.

According to Greek mythology, 'Arachne' was a mortal woman who possessed exceptional weaving skills. She boasted that her talent surpassed even that of the goddess Athena, provoking the ire of the divine weaver. In a fit of rage, Athena challenged 'Arachne' to a weaving contest. 'Arachne 's tapestry was flawless, depicting scenes of the gods' misdeeds, while Athena 's depicted their triumphs. Unable to bear the humiliation, 'Arachne' hung herself, and in a twist of fate, Athena transformed her into a spider, forever weaving her intricate webs.; Gothic Names; Greek Names; Mythological Names; Nature Names
Popularity of Arachne: The name 'Arachne' has not enjoyed significant popularity throughout history. It remains relatively obscure, with sporadic usage. However, it experienced a notable spike in popularity during the 19th century, when the fascination with Greek mythology was at its peak. It is worth noting that the name 's popularity is more prevalent in literary and artistic circles than in everyday usage.; Arachne currently has 3 likes, and is in the top 12% of liked girl's names. The name Aina is slightly more popular than Arachne.

Etymology of Arachne

The etymology of the name 'Arachne' can be traced back to the ancient Greek language. As mentioned earlier, it is derived from the Greek word 'aráchnē', meaning 'spider'. The association with spiders is not surprising, considering the mythological transformation of 'Arachne' into a spider by Athena. The name perfectly encapsulates the weaver 's fate and serves as a reminder of the consequences of hubris.

Cultural Significance of Arachne

The name 'Arachne' holds particular significance in the realm of Greek mythology and ancient literature. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the consequences of challenging the gods. 'Arachne 's story has been retold and referenced in countless works of art, literature, and even music. It stands as a reminder of the delicate balance between human ambition and divine power.