The name Daphne is of Greek origin and means "laurel tree." It was the name of a nymph in Greek mythology who was transformed into a laurel tree to escape the pursuit of Apollo, the god of the sun. In ancient Greece, laurels were often used as symbols of victory and immortality.
The name Daphne has been popular throughout history. It was borne by several early Christian martyrs and saints, including Saint Daphne, who is said to have been a young girl martyred during the reign of Emperor Diocletian. The name also appears in literature, most notably in the Roman poet Ovid's "Metamorphoses," which tells the story of Apollo and Daphne.
In the modern era, the name Daphne has been used by several notable figures, including the British playwright and author Daphne du Maurier, best known for her novel "Rebecca," and the American actress Daphne Zuniga. Today, the name Daphne is still popular around the world, particularly in English-speaking countries.
Overall, the name Daphne has a rich history and cultural significance, drawing from both Greek mythology and Christian tradition. Its meaning, "laurel tree," adds to its appeal as a strong and enduring name choice for girls.
In the United States, the name Daphne was given to seven babies in 1962. This means that approximately 0.003% of all newborns that year were named Daphne. It's important to note that this figure has changed over time and varies depending on the year. While Daphne was not a very popular name in the U.S. during this period, it is still significant to those seven individuals who share this unique moniker as their birth name.