Selene
Female nameGreek
✨ Meaning
Selene is the Greek word for the moon and the name of the goddess who personified it, driving her chariot across the night sky. The word derives from 'selas,' meaning light or brightness, so the moon is named in Greek for the light it gives rather than for its shape or motion. The chemical element selenium was named after her.
🌍 Origin
Selene is distinct from Artemis, though the two were later conflated, and the Romans identified her with Luna. The name has been used in Greece continuously and entered wider use in the twentieth century. It has risen alongside Luna and Aurora as parents have turned toward celestial names.
⭐ Famous People Named Selene
- Selene Luna
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What does Selene mean?
Selene is the Greek word for moon and the name of the moon goddess, from 'selas,' meaning light or brightness.
How is Selene pronounced?
It is suh-LEE-nee in classical transliteration, though many English speakers say suh-LEEN.
Is Selene the same as Luna?
Luna is the Roman equivalent. The two are counterparts in their respective mythologies rather than the same name.