Ἀριάδνη

Ariadne

girlGreek

Ariadne is a girl name of Greek origin, meaning “Most holy, utterly pure”.

MeaningMost holy, utterly pure
GenderGirl
OriginGreek
Written asἈριάδνη
Pronunciationar-ee-AD-nee
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inGreece, United Kingdom, United States

Meaning and origin of Ariadne

In Greek myth Ariadne was the daughter of King Minos of Crete who gave Theseus a thread so he could escape the Minotaur's labyrinth. Abandoned by him on the island of Naxos, she became the wife of the god Dionysus. The name is usually explained as combining ari-, 'very', with adnos, a Cretan form of hagnos, 'holy', though some scholars think it is pre-Greek. Variants such as Ariane and Arianna are widely used in Europe.

Is Ariadne a religious name?

Ariadne comes from Greek mythology rather than from the Bible; a little-known Christian martyr, Saint Ariadne of Phrygia, also bore the name.

How popular is Ariadne?

Rare but rising in English-speaking countries; more familiar in Greece.

Gifts with the name Ariadne

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Spellings and variants of Ariadne

ArianaAriannaArianeArianne

Names similar to Ariadne

PenelopeAthenaCalliopeArianna

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Ariadne mean?

Ariadne means 'Most holy, utterly pure'. It is of Greek origin.

Does Ariadne have a religious meaning?

Ariadne comes from Greek mythology rather than from the Bible; a little-known Christian martyr, Saint Ariadne of Phrygia, also bore the name.

How do you pronounce Ariadne?

Ariadne is pronounced ar-ee-AD-nee.

Is Ariadne a boy or girl name?

Ariadne is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.