What Does the Name Daphne Mean?
Daphne means "laurel tree" or "bay tree," from the Greek daphne, the plant whose leaves formed the laurel wreaths awarded to victors and poets in ancient Greece.
The Origin & History of Daphne
In Greek mythology, Daphne was a nymph pursued by the god Apollo who begged her father, the river god Peneus, to save her; he transformed her into a laurel tree, which Apollo then adopted as his sacred plant. The name entered English use in the late 19th century as classical Greek names came into fashion, and it has remained in steady circulation ever since.
Cultural Reach
Daphne has appeared widely in literature and screen, from Daphne du Maurier's gothic novels to television characters across decades, keeping the name consistently visible without any single moment defining it.
Famous People Named Daphne
Notable bearers include Daphne du Maurier, the British author of Rebecca and The Birds, and Daphne Guinness, the British fashion designer and style icon.
Nicknames & Variations
Daphne is typically used in its full form, with Daph or Daphie as occasional affectionate nicknames. It has no widely used alternate spellings in English.
Is Daphne a Good Name in 2026?
Daphne's mythological roots and soft, classic sound have kept it a dependable choice for decades, appealing to parents who want a name that feels literary without being unfamiliar.