Ariane

girlGreek

Ariane is a girl name of Greek, via French origin, meaning “Most holy”.

MeaningMost holy
GenderGirl
OriginGreek, via French
Pronunciationah-RYAHN
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inFrance, Germany, Switzerland, Canada

Meaning and origin of Ariane

Ariane is the French form of Ariadne, the Cretan princess in Greek mythology who gave Theseus the thread that led him out of the Minotaur's labyrinth. Her name is usually explained as 'most holy', from the Cretan Greek elements ari- 'very' and adnos 'holy', though this is an ancient interpretation. The opera Ariane et Barbe-bleue by Paul Dukas and the European Ariane rockets have both carried the name.

Is Ariane a religious name?

Ariane comes from Greek mythology rather than any religious scripture, so it has no particular religious background.

How popular is Ariane?

Familiar in France, Switzerland and Germany, used at a moderate level.

Gifts with the name Ariane

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Spellings and variants of Ariane

AriadneAriannaArianaAriadna

Names similar to Ariane

OrianeDelphineElodieCoralie

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Ariane mean?

Ariane means 'Most holy'. It is of Greek, via French origin.

Does Ariane have a religious meaning?

Ariane comes from Greek mythology rather than any religious scripture, so it has no particular religious background.

How do you pronounce Ariane?

Ariane is pronounced ah-RYAHN.

Is Ariane a boy or girl name?

Ariane is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.