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Cephalus Name Meaning & Details

Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Cephalus

Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name CEPHALUS. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.

Name

Cephalus

Gender

Male

Origin

Greek

Lucky Number

4

Meaning of the Name

Cephalus is a Greek masculine name meaning 'head' or 'leader.' In mythology, it belongs to the husband of Procris, known for his tragic story of accidental betrayal and loss.

Stages of a Male

Complete Numerology Analysis

Your Numerology Number

4

Based on Pythagorean Numerology System

Ruling Planet

Uranus (Rahu)

Positive Nature

Strong sense of order, loyal, practical, and disciplined.

Negative Traits

Stubborn, overly serious, rigid, and prone to feeling restricted.

Lucky Colours

Blue, gray.

Lucky Days

Saturday.

Lucky Stones

Blue sapphire.

Harmony Numbers

1, 7, 8.

Best Suited Professions

Managers, engineers, accountants, organizers.

What People Like About You

Dependability, discipline, practicality.

Famous People Named Cephalus

Cephalus of Athens

Mythological Figure

Central character in the tragic myth of Cephalus and Procris

Cephalus

Philosopher

Father of orator Lysias and character in Plato's Republic

Cephalus

Literary Character

Featured in Ovid's Metamorphoses representing tragic love

Name Variations & International Equivalents

Kephalos Ancient Greek Céphale French Cefalo Italian Kephalus German

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Cultural & Historical Significance

Cephalus occupies a unique position in Greek cultural history, bridging mythology and philosophy. As the tragic husband of Procris, his story represents one of classical mythology's most poignant tales of love, suspicion, and accidental death—a narrative that has resonated through centuries of Western literature and art. The myth explores complex human emotions including jealousy, trust, and the devastating consequences of misunderstandings, serving as a moral lesson about communication and the dangers of unfounded suspicions.

Beyond mythology, Cephalus appears in Plato's Republic as a wealthy metic who represents the perspective of age and experience in philosophical discourse. This dual representation—both as mythological figure and philosophical interlocutor—demonstrates how ancient Greeks used the same cultural figures to explore different aspects of human experience. The name thus carries layers of meaning: from tragic romance to intellectual discourse, making it a rich cultural artifact that continues to be studied in classical literature and philosophy courses worldwide.

Extended Personality Analysis

Those bearing the name Cephalus are often associated with a blend of intellectual authority and emotional complexity. The name suggests someone who is naturally inclined toward leadership and careful thought, possessing the analytical mind implied by its meaning of 'head.' Such individuals typically exhibit wisdom beyond their years and approach problems with systematic reasoning, much like the philosophical Cephalus who engages in deep discussions about justice and morality.

The mythological associations add dimensions of passion, loyalty, and tragic flaw to the personality profile. A person named Cephalus might be deeply committed in relationships but potentially struggle with trust issues or overthinking situations. There's an underlying sensitivity and intensity to their character—they feel things deeply and may carry the weight of past mistakes or misunderstandings. This creates a personality that is both strong and vulnerable, authoritative yet compassionate, making them complex individuals who command respect while understanding human frailty.

Modern Usage & Popularity

In contemporary naming practices, Cephalus remains an extraordinarily rare choice, primarily confined to academic circles, classical studies, and literary references rather than practical use for children. The name's strong mythological associations with tragedy and its archaic sound make it unappealing to most modern parents, though it occasionally appears in historical fiction or as a distinctive name for pets in classically-inclined households. Its usage has never registered on modern baby name popularity charts, and it maintains an almost exclusively scholarly character. However, the name occasionally experiences minor revivals in artistic communities or among families with strong Greek heritage who appreciate its classical roots and philosophical connections, though even in these contexts it remains an unconventional and bold choice.

Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings

Symbolically, Cephalus represents the intricate balance between intellect and emotion, wisdom and human fallibility. The name embodies the concept of leadership and mental authority through its etymological connection to 'head,' while simultaneously carrying the weight of tragic error and unintended consequences from its mythological background. It serves as a metaphor for the human condition where rational thought and emotional impulses often conflict, and where the best intentions can lead to devastating outcomes. The symbolic meaning extends to themes of fidelity tested by suspicion, the irreversible nature of certain actions, and the complex interplay between love and trust that defines many human relationships. Ultimately, Cephalus symbolizes the profound truth that even the most thoughtful and well-intentioned individuals are susceptible to the tragic flaws that make us human.

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