Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Cassandra”

Cassandra
Meaning: One Who Excels / Gender: Girl / Pronunciation: kuh-SAN-druh
Origin and Historical Background
The name Cassandra originates from ancient Greece and holds considerable historical significance. Cassandra was a prominent figure in Greek mythology. She was a Trojan princess, the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. According to myth, Apollo granted her the gift of prophecy but later cursed her so that no one would ever believe her predictions. The name Cassandra has been carried through history as a symbol of tragedy and foresight and is enshrined in classical literature through works such as Homer’s “The Iliad.”
Meaning and Cultural Significance
Cassandra means “One Who Excels,” a name that embodies triumph, brilliance, and victory. This meaning promotes themes of excellence and superiority, making it particularly resonate with parents seeking an empowering name for their daughter. The name hints at attributes such as intelligence, foresight, and admirable qualities, thus weaving a rich cultural fabric around the idea of victory and success.
Famous Historical Figures with the Name Cassandra
1. Cassandra Austen
- Historical Era: 18th Century
- Key Contributions: Cassandra Austen was a British artist and older sister of famed novelist Jane Austen.
- Cultural Impact: Cassandra played a crucial role in preserving her sister Jane’s letters, providing historians with essential insights into the life of one of literature’s most cherished authors.
2. Cassandra Peterson
- Historical Era: 20th and 21st Century
- Key Contributions: Actress and personality known for her character Elvira, Mistress of the Dark.
- Cultural Impact: Cassandra Peterson inspired a cult following and significantly influenced the horror genre in popular culture.
Usage Over Time
The popularity of the name Cassandra experienced significant fluctuations over the decades. It saw a surge in popularity in the 1980s and 1990s in the United States. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Cassandra was among the top 100 names from the late 1980s through the early 2000s. However, its popularity has slightly waned in recent years, reflecting broader trends in name variations and preferences.
Pronunciation Guide
The name Cassandra is pronounced kuh-SAN-druh, with emphasis on the second syllable. This pronunciation maintains the name’s classical roots and lends an elegant phonetic flow, making it pleasant to articulate and hear.
Biblical Context
The name Cassandra does not have a direct Biblical reference or equivalent. It primarily derives from ancient Greek mythology and literary tradition rather than Judeo-Christian scriptures. As such, it lacks the theological connotation that names like Mary or Elizabeth might possess.
Additional Unique Information
Numerology
The name Cassandra corresponds to the number 8 in numerology, which signifies power, ambition, and material success. It embodying traits that are fitting with the name’s meaning, “One Who Excels.”
Variations
Variants of the name include Kassandra with a “K,” which retains the same pronunciation but offers a unique spelling option.
Cultural Variants
The name is well-known and used in various cultures around the world, including:
- Spanish: Casandra
- Italian: Cassandra
Popularity Information
According to the SSA.gov data, Cassandra ranked higher in popularity during the late 1980s through early 2000s, being within the top 100 girls’ names. It saw a decline in rankings beyond the 2000s, reflecting changing naming trends.
Concluding Statement
Cassandra is a name steeped in rich historical context and cultural significance. Meaning “One Who Excels,” it connotes triumph and brilliance. Whether you are drawn to its mythological roots, its historical usage, or its strong, empowering meaning, Cassandra remains a beautiful and enduring choice for your baby girl.
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This information aims to provide a thorough understanding of the name Cassandra, helping expectant parents make an informed and heartfelt decision.