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Merope Name Meaning & Details

Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Merope

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

Name

Merope

Gender

Female

Origin

Greek

Lucky Number

9

Meaning of the Name

In Greek mythology, Merope is one of the Pleiades, a nymph associated with stars. The name may derive from Greek roots meaning 'sparkling' or 'eloquent', reflecting celestial or expressive qualities.

Stages of a Female

Complete Numerology Analysis

Your Numerology Number

9

Based on Pythagorean Numerology System

Ruling Planet

Mars

Positive Nature

Generous, passionate, energetic, and humanitarian.

Negative Traits

Impulsive, impatient, moody, and can be overly emotional.

Lucky Colours

Red, maroon, scarlet.

Lucky Days

Tuesday.

Lucky Stones

Red coral, garnet.

Harmony Numbers

1, 2, 3, 6.

Best Suited Professions

Military, sports, philanthropy, leadership roles.

What People Like About You

Courage, energy, leadership, generosity.

Famous People Named Merope

Merope of Greek Mythology

Nymph/Queen

Foster mother of Oedipus who saved him from death as an infant

Merope (Pleiades)

Celestial Nymph

One of the Seven Sisters in the Pleiades star cluster, the only one to marry a mortal

Merope of Messenia

Queen

Wife of Cresphontes, known for her tragic story in Greek mythology

Merope Ward

Academic

Classical scholar who contributed to Greek mythology studies

Name Variations & International Equivalents

Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.

Cultural & Historical Significance

Merope holds profound significance in Greek mythology as a name borne by several important female figures. The most prominent Merope was the foster mother of Oedipus, the tragic hero of Sophocles' Theban plays. As the wife of King Polybus of Corinth, she raised Oedipus as her own after he was abandoned as an infant, unknowingly setting in motion one of Greek mythology's most famous tragic cycles. Her story represents the complex themes of fate, maternal love, and the unintended consequences of protective actions that are central to Greek tragedy.

Another significant Merope was one of the Pleiades, the seven daughters of Atlas and Pleione who were transformed into stars. Merope was unique among her sisters for marrying a mortal, Sisyphus, and her star is said to shine less brightly due to her shame or humility. This celestial connection has made the name significant in astronomy and astrology for centuries, with the Pleiades cluster being one of the most recognizable star formations in the night sky. The name appears in various Greek tragedies and epic poems, representing themes of maternal love, sacrifice, and the complex interplay between mortal and divine realms that characterized ancient Greek worldview.

Extended Personality Analysis

Individuals named Merope are often associated with nurturing, compassionate, and resilient personality traits, reflecting the mythological figure who saved and raised Oedipus. They tend to possess strong maternal instincts and protective qualities, often putting others' needs before their own. The name suggests someone with emotional depth and the ability to provide stability in turbulent circumstances, much like the mythological Merope who provided a safe haven for the abandoned infant Oedipus.

Meropes are typically perceived as having quiet strength and perseverance, capable of enduring difficult situations with grace and dignity. They often exhibit wisdom gained through experience and a practical approach to problem-solving. The celestial connection to the Pleiades star adds an element of mystery and ethereal quality, suggesting someone who may be introspective, thoughtful, and connected to deeper philosophical or spiritual matters. Their strength often lies in their ability to adapt and care for others while maintaining their own integrity, embodying the balance between earthly responsibilities and higher aspirations that the name symbolizes.

Modern Usage & Popularity

In contemporary times, Merope remains a rare but meaningful choice for parents seeking a name with classical roots and mythological significance. The name has seen a slight resurgence in popularity due to increased interest in Greek mythology names and the influence of popular culture, particularly J.K. Rowling's use of the name for Merope Gaunt in the Harry Potter series. While not common enough to appear on most popular baby name lists, Merope is chosen by parents looking for a distinctive name with literary and historical depth. It's particularly popular among academic families, classical scholars, and those with Greek heritage. The name maintains an air of sophistication and intellectual appeal while being accessible and pronounceable in most Western languages. Its rarity ensures that a child named Merope will have a unique identity while carrying a name with substantial cultural weight and mythological resonance.

Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings

Merope carries rich symbolic meanings derived from its mythological origins. The name symbolizes maternal protection and sacrifice, representing the selfless love of a foster mother who saves a child's life without knowing the tragic destiny she enables. It embodies the theme of hidden identities and unexpected destinies, as seen in the Oedipus myth where Merope's actions unknowingly set a tragic fate in motion. The celestial connection to the Pleiades star cluster adds symbolism of guidance, navigation, and cosmic order, while Merope's specific star—said to shine less brightly than her sisters'—symbolizes humility, mortality, and the consequences of crossing boundaries between divine and human realms. The name also represents resilience in adversity and the quiet strength required to navigate complex family dynamics, making it a powerful symbol of both the burdens and blessings of caregiving relationships throughout human experience.

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