Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Philomela

      Origin

      Greek

      Meaning

      Song of the Nightingale

      Variations

      Philomena, Philomella, Philomeen
      The name Philomela, stemming from Greek origins, translates to Song of the Nightingale. This poetic appellation reflects the qualities associated with the nightingale, including beauty, melodic sound, and a deep connection to themes of longing and sorrow. In classical literature, the nightingale symbolizes the expression of emotions through song, often evoking the notion of art as a response to loss and suffering.

      Philomela is a prominent figure in Greek mythology, most notably in the tragic tale recounted by Ovid in “Metamorphoses.” In the myth, Philomela is the daughter of King Pandion of Athens. After being wronged by her sister’s husband, Tereus, her story unfolds with themes of betrayal, transformation, and the search for justice. Following her traumatic experiences, she is transformed into a nightingale, and her song epitomizes her silenced voice and longing for expression. This myth has influenced a variety of artistic works throughout history, highlighting the enduring power of her narrative.

      Today, the name Philomela is often associated with artistic and literary circles, as its roots in mythology continue to resonate within contemporary themes of empowerment and the reclamation of voice. While not commonly used as a first name, it has seen revival in niche literary communities and among individuals seeking names that evoke cultural heritage and depth. Philomela also inspires modern adaptations in literature, music, and visual arts, serving as a powerful symbol of resilience against adversity and the transformative power of art.

      Based on our records...

      Cook

      Cook

      This is the most common surname associated with Philomela.
      John

      John

      This is the most common name of those married to a Philomela.
      George

      George

      This is the most common name for a child of a Philomela.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1794 is when there were the most people born with the first name Philomela.

      Explore the origins of another name.