Ὠφελία

Ophelia

girlGreek

Ophelia is a girl name of Greek origin, meaning “Help, benefit”.

MeaningHelp, benefit
GenderGirl
OriginGreek
Written asὨφελία
Pronunciationoh-FEEL-yuh
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom, France

Meaning and origin of Ophelia

Ophelia is generally derived from the Greek opheleia, 'help' or 'benefit'. The name was probably first used by the Italian poet Jacopo Sannazaro in the fifteenth century, and Shakespeare made it famous as Hamlet's tragic beloved, who drowns after her father's death. Long avoided because of that sad story, it has become fashionable again in English-speaking countries.

Is Ophelia a religious name?

Ophelia is a literary name of Greek origin with no religious background.

How popular is Ophelia?

Increasingly popular in the United States and Britain.

Gifts with the name Ophelia

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Spellings and variants of Ophelia

OfeliaOphélie

Names similar to Ophelia

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Ophelia mean?

Ophelia means 'Help, benefit'. It is of Greek origin.

Does Ophelia have a religious meaning?

Ophelia is a literary name of Greek origin with no religious background.

How do you pronounce Ophelia?

Ophelia is pronounced oh-FEEL-yuh.

Is Ophelia a boy or girl name?

Ophelia is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.