What does Phedra mean and where does it come from?
Phedra (Φαίδρα) is of Greek origin and carries the meaning of 'bright' or 'shining.' The name is most famously associated with Phaedra, a character from Greek mythology. In the myth, Phaedra is the daughter of Minos and Pasiphaë and is known for her tragic love for her stepson, Hippolytus. The name
Cultural significance
Phedra has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bright, shining.
Peak popularity
Reached #5046 in 1969 — currently #1396 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Phedra?
Phedra works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Phedra Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Phedra Rose
Floral · soft ending
Phedra Mae
Sweet · timeless
Phedra Claire
French influence · crisp
Phedra Jane
Literary · strong
Phedra Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Phedra right now?
Holding steady — currently #1396 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1396 | 804 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1401 | 784 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1406 | 754 | ▲ up 8429 · +14980% births |
| 1975 | #9835 | 5 | — |
The story of Phedra
Phedra is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1969. With 47 total births recorded, Phedra remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9835 in 1975 to #1396 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Phedra in 1969:
💎Phedra has only 47 total recorded births since 1969 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Phedra?
What names sound and feel like Phedra?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phedra also consider these
Common questions about the name Phedra
What does the name Phedra mean?
Phedra means "bright, shining" — 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 Phedra?
Phedra is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Phedra?
Phedra 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.
How do you pronounce the name Phedra?
Phedra is a two-syllable name pronounced F EH1 D R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Phedra a common or rare name?
Phedra is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.