What does Phaedra mean and where does it come from?
Phaedra (Φαίδρα) is of ancient Greek origin, associated with classical mythology and literature, particularly as a tragic heroine in the works of Euripides. The name emphasizes brightness and brilliance, signifying a radiant personality. The name has seen periods of popularity in both Greece and the
Cultural significance
Phaedra has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of greek.
Peak popularity
Reached #1194 in 1971 — currently #7409 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Phaedra?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Phaedra?
Phaedra works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Phaedra Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Phaedra Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Phaedra Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Phaedra Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Phaedra Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Phaedra Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Phaedra right now?
Falling — down 1303 spots — currently #7409 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #7409 | 15 | ▼ down 1303 · -25% births |
| 2024 | #6106 | 20 | ▼ down 1016 · -23% births |
| 2023 | #5090 | 26 | ▲ up 498 · +13% births |
| 2022 | #5588 | 23 | ▲ up 109 · +5% births |
| 2021 | #5697 | 22 | ▼ down 208 |
| 2020 | #5489 | 22 | ▼ down 1320 · -37% births |
| 2015 | #4169 | 35 | ▲ up 728 · +21% births |
| 2010 | #4897 | 29 | ▼ down 145 · +4% births |
| 2005 | #4752 | 28 | ▲ up 2163 · +87% births |
| 2000 | #6915 | 15 | ▼ down 1394 · -12% births |
| 1995 | #5521 | 17 | ▲ up 1073 · +31% births |
| 1990 | #6594 | 13 | ▼ down 2799 · -41% births |
| 1985 | #3795 | 22 | ▼ down 1015 · -33% births |
| 1980 | #2780 | 33 | ▼ down 978 · -37% births |
| 1975 | #1802 | 52 | — |
The story of Phaedra
Phaedra is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1963. With 1,792 total births recorded, Phaedra remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2109 in 1965, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #5090 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Phaedra in 1971:
Phaedra by decade
Phaedra peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 285 | |
| 1970s ★ | 589 | |
| 1980s | 216 | |
| 1990s | 156 | |
| 2000s | 238 | |
| 2010s | 286 | |
| 2020s | 57 | |
💎With 1,792 total births, Phaedra is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Phaedra?
Common
PhaPhaePhaiePhayEdra
What names sound and feel like Phaedra?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phaedra also consider these
How is Phaedra written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Phaedra?
Common questions about the name Phaedra
What does the name Phaedra mean?
Phaedra means "Greek" — a name rooted in Greece tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Phaedra?
Phaedra is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Phaedra have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Phaedra?
Phaedra originates from Greece tradition. Greece names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Phaedra trending right now?
Phaedra is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Is Phaedra a common or rare name?
Phaedra is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.