Name Meaning & Origin
🔊 FAY-druh /ˈfeɪdrə/
"Bright, Shining"
Data last updated: 2025 SSA records
Derived from the Greek word phaos meaning 'light' or 'bright'. In Greek mythology, Phaedra was the name of a queen who fell in love with Hippolytus, her husband's stepson. Her unrequited love led to tragic consequences.
Phaedra may refer to:
Phaedra is a Christian name derived from the Greek word φαιδρός (phaidros), meaning shining, radiant, or bright. Although not directly mentioned in the Bible, the name Phaedra has historical si…
Emotional Traits
Hidden Personality
Lucky Colors
Numerology: Those with a Life Path Number 9 are leaders who inspire others and humanitarians who are compassionate and understanding.
Life Path 8 — Power & Ambition: Goal-driven, authoritative, and business-minded.
Cultural Impact
The name Phaedra holds a rich cultural history, being derived from Greek mythology. It symbolizes the complexity and intensity of human emotions, particularly passion and unrequited love. Phaedra's tragic love story has been retold through various works of art, literature, and musicalmasterpieces, serving as an enduring reminder of the power and consequences of love.
Spiritual Significance
The name Phaedra carries a deeper spiritual meaning rooted in the Greek concept of uncontrollable passions and desires. It serves as a reminder of the importance of self-control and moderation in the face of strong emotions. As a Christian name, Phaedra can also symbolize the light and brightness of God's love, shining through even in the darkest of circumstances and guiding us towards the path of righteousness and spiritual growth.
Age breakdown · state data · decade charts · popularity trend — all on the full statistics page.
Root element "Phaedra" emerges in Greek tradition, carrying the core meaning "Bright, Shining".
Used in English literary and religious texts, spreading through cultural exchange.
Carried across regions through trade, religion, and migration. Multiple spelling variants develop.
Standardized in its current form. Continues to be used across multiple cultures worldwide.
~1,885 people named Phaedra in the US. Peaked in 1971 with 96 recorded uses.
Phaedra was a character in Greek mythology, the wife of Hippolytus and the step-mother of Thisbe. She fell in love with her step-son, and when her advances were rejected, she falsely accused him of attempting to seduce her. Hippolytus was then banished and soon met his death. Phaedra's story has been retold many times in literature and art, most notably by Seneca and Jean Racine.
The Christian name Phaedra came from the Greek mythological character, but it was popularized during the Middle Ages and Renaissance as a given name for girls. In Christian legend, Phaedra was a saint and martyr who lived in the 2nd or 3rd century AD and was the daughter of a Roman senator. She was persecuted for her faith and was either executed or died of grief after her husband was killed in battle.
Modern Usage
In modern context, the name Phaedra is mainly associated with Greek mythology and classical literature. The character Phaedra from the Greek legend of Hippolytus is a common reference, particularly in the fields of stage plays, operas, and film and television. The tragic love story of Phaedra for her stepson Hippolytus is a popular theme that continues to be explored in contemporary art. The name Phaedra has also been used as a given name for girls, reflecting the enduring appeal of Greek mythology and its timeless themes.
Phaedra means "Bright, Shining" and is a popular Christian name with deep spiritual significance.
Yes, Phaedra is a beautiful Christian name that carries positive meaning and is widely used in Christian communities around the world.
Phaedra has Greek origins and is rooted in Christian tradition and culture.
The Life Path number for Phaedra is 8, associated with Power & Ambition. Soul Urge: 7. Personality: 1.
Phaedra is Predominantly Female. Based on US data, 0% male and 100% female.
Approximately 1,885 people in the United States are named Phaedra. The name peaked in 1971 with 96 recorded uses.
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