Anticlea Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Anticlea
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name ANTICLEA. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Anticlea
Gender
Female
Origin
Greek
Lucky Number
2
Meaning of the Name
Anticlea is a name from Greek mythology, meaning 'against glory' or 'in place of fame,' often associated with the mother of Odysseus, symbolizing maternal devotion and sorrow.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Moon
Positive Nature
Diplomatic, friendly, artistic, empathetic.
Negative Traits
Over-sensitive, moody, indecisive, prone to self-pity.
Lucky Colours
Green, cream, white.
Lucky Days
Monday.
Lucky Stones
Pearl, moonstone.
Harmony Numbers
1, 3, 4.
Best Suited Professions
Diplomats, mediators, caregivers, artists.
What People Like About You
Cooperative spirit, friendliness, artistic talent.
Famous People Named Anticlea
Anticlea of Ithaca
Mythological Queen
Mother of Odysseus in Homer's epic poems, daughter of the notorious thief Autolycus, wife of Laertes
Anticlea (historical figure)
Ancient Greek Noblewoman
Mentioned in various historical records from classical Greece, though details are scarce beyond name preservation
Anticlea (literary character)
Fictional Character
Appears in contemporary retellings of Greek myths and historical fiction novels about the Trojan War era
Name Variations & International Equivalents
Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.
Cultural & Historical Significance
Beyond her maternal role, Anticlea's lineage connects her to the cunning thief Autolycus, making her part of a family known for intelligence and trickery—traits she passed to her famous son. Her character embodies the classical Greek ideal of maternal devotion and the psychological toll of separation, serving as a literary device to explore themes of mortality, memory, and the enduring nature of family connections even beyond death. In later classical traditions, Anticlea's story influenced how maternal figures were portrayed in literature and drama, establishing patterns that would recur throughout Western literary history.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Anticlea are often perceived as possessing deep emotional intelligence, strong maternal instincts, and remarkable resilience. They tend to be fiercely protective of their loved ones, displaying the kind of devotion that characterized the mythological Anticlea's relationship with Odysseus. These individuals typically exhibit wisdom beyond their years and have a nurturing presence that makes others feel secure and understood. Their emotional depth can sometimes manifest as melancholy or worry, particularly when separated from those they care about, echoing the mythological Anticlea who literally died from grief over her son's absence.
However, this emotional sensitivity is balanced by practical wisdom and the ability to provide sound counsel. Anticleas often possess an intuitive understanding of human nature and can read people with remarkable accuracy. They value family traditions and historical connections, frequently serving as the keepers of family stories and heritage. Their strength lies in their ability to endure emotional hardships while maintaining their core values and commitments to others. The name suggests someone who combines emotional depth with practical intelligence, creating a personality that is both nurturing and resilient—able to weather emotional storms while providing stability for those around them.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary times, Anticlea remains an exceptionally rare given name, primarily used by classical scholars, mythology enthusiasts, and parents seeking unique names with deep historical roots. The name appears most frequently in academic contexts, literary discussions, and among families with strong connections to Greek heritage. Its usage peaked briefly during the neoclassical revival periods of the 18th and 19th centuries but has never achieved mainstream popularity. Modern parents who choose this name typically appreciate its mythological significance, melodic quality, and the strong, intelligent maternal figure it represents. The name occasionally appears in birth registries in Greece, Italy, and among diaspora communities, but global usage remains minimal. Recent trends toward unique mythological names have sparked slight renewed interest, though Anticlea's complexity and ancient feel likely prevent widespread adoption. The name's rarity makes it an exclusive choice for parents wanting a distinctive name with classical gravitas and emotional depth.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Anticlea represents the eternal bond between mother and child, the power of maternal love that transcends even death, and the profound impact of absence and longing. Her mythological narrative transforms her into a symbol of ultimate sacrifice—dying from grief over separation from her child. This makes the name emblematic of deep emotional connections and the psychological costs of love and loss. The name also carries connotations of wisdom passed through generations, as Anticlea connects the cunning intelligence of her father Autolycus with the strategic brilliance of her son Odysseus. In a broader sense, Anticlea symbolizes the classical ideal of pietas (duty and devotion to family) and serves as a reminder of how ancestral influences shape individual character. Her underworld appearance represents the persistence of memory and the way the departed continue to influence the living through lessons and love, making her name a powerful symbol of enduring connections across the boundaries of life and death.