Meaning, origin, history
The name Selene is of Greek origin and means "moon". In Greek mythology, Selene was the goddess of the moon and was said to drive a horse-drawn chariot across the sky each night to light up the darkness with her silvery glow.
Selene was also known as one of the three virgin goddesses along with Artemis, goddess of the hunt, and Hestia, goddess of the hearth. She was renowned for her beauty and grace, as well as her wisdom and intelligence.
The name Selene has been used throughout history, but it gained popularity in modern times thanks to various pop culture references. For instance, Selene is the name of the vampire queen in the Underworld film series, and also appears in works such as The Vampire Diaries and the video game God of War.
Today, Selene remains a popular choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their daughter. Its association with the moon makes it a beautiful option for those who appreciate celestial themes or simply want a name that shines brightly like the moon itself.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Selene since 1880
Total births
8,809
Total since 1880
Peak year
2022
424 births
in 2023
398
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+96%
↗
vs previous 5 years