Iantha is a rare and beautiful female given name of Greek origin. The name Iantha means "violet flower" in Greek. It is derived from the Greek word 'ion', which means violet or purple, and 'anthos', which means flower.
The name Iantha was used in ancient Greece to refer to the violet flower, which was considered a symbol of modesty and chastity. In mythology, it is said that the goddess Hera turned her servant Io into a white heifer when she discovered her affair with Zeus. However, Io's tears fell onto the ground and turned into violets, making them purple. This legend may have contributed to the association between Iantha and the violet flower.
Iantha was also used as a female given name in ancient Greece, although it is not clear how commonly it was used. It has since become a rare but beautiful choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their daughter.
In modern times, Iantha has been used by a few notable figures. For example, Iantha Carley is an American actress who was born in the 1960s. However, overall, the name remains quite uncommon.
Despite its rarity, Iantha is a beautiful and meaningful name that carries with it a rich history and cultural significance. Its association with the violet flower makes it a fitting choice for parents looking for a name that is both unique and elegant.
The name Iantha experienced a significant peak during World War I, with notable increases in birth years 1914 to 1918. However, it became quite rare post-WWII, with fewer than 10 births per year from 1942 onwards.