All about the name

Perseus

Female

« Perseus is a Greek-derived name meaning "to pierce through" or "destroy," reflecting the heroic nature of its mythological figure namesake, known as Persée in French. »

#27085 over 10 years

Meaning, origin, history

Perseus is a name of Greek origin, derived from the hero of Greek mythology who was also known as Persée in French. The name means "to pierce through" or "to destroy," and it reflects the heroic nature of the mythological figure. In Greek mythology, Perseus was the son of Zeus and Danaë. He was born after his mother was imprisoned by her father, King Acrisius of Argos, who had received a prophecy that he would be killed by his grandson. To avoid this fate, Acrisius locked Danaë away in a bronze tower, but Zeus visited her in the form of a golden shower and she became pregnant with Perseus. When Perseus was born, he and his mother were cast out to sea in a chest, but they were rescued by Dictys, a fisherman on the island of Seriphos. Perseus grew up there and eventually set out on a quest to slay Medusa, the monstrous Gorgon whose gaze would turn anyone who looked at her into stone. Perseus accomplished this feat with the help of the gods Hermes and Athena, using a mirrored shield to reflect Medusa's gaze and avoid turning himself to stone. He then beheaded Medusa and used her head as a weapon to defeat other monsters and rescue Princess Andromeda from a sea monster sent by Poseidon. Perseus eventually returned to Argos, where he unintentionally fulfilled the prophecy of his grandfather's death by accidentally throwing a discus that struck Acrisius on the head. After this tragic accident, Perseus became king of Tiryns and married Andromeda. The name Perseus has been used throughout history as a symbol of strength, bravery, and heroism. It has been adopted by several notable figures throughout history, including Emperor Augustus' sister Octavia Minor, who was known for her beauty and intelligence. Today, the name Perseus continues to be associated with these positive qualities and is often chosen by parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their sons.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Perseus since 1880

Total births
32
Total since 1880
Peak year
2016
7 births
in 2016
7
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-100%
vs previous 5 years