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 Nephthys

      Origin

      Ancient Egyptian

      Meaning

      Lady of the House or Mistress of the Home

      Variations

      Nephthali, Iephthae, Jephthah
      The name Nephthys originates from ancient Egyptian mythology and is derived from the Egyptian words Nebt-Het, which translates to Lady of the House or Mistress of the Home. In this context, Nephthys signifies a protective and nurturing role, as she is often associated with the domestic sphere and the care of the home. In mythology, she is depicted as a goddess of the night, and her character embodies elements of motherhood and sanctuary.

      Nephthys is one of the significant deities in ancient Egyptian religion, commonly associated with the funerary aspects of life and death. She is the sister of Osiris and Isis, and the wife of Set. Throughout ancient Egyptian history, Nephthys played a crucial role in various myths, particularly in the context of the Osiris myth, where she is remembered for her loyalty and support during Osiris's death and resurrection. Her worship was prevalent in temples dedicated to her and in funerary practices, as she was believed to guide souls in the afterlife.

      In contemporary times, the name Nephthys has been adopted in various cultural contexts, including literature, art, and popular media, often symbolizing themes of protection and domesticity. It is occasionally used as a personal name, reflecting a connection to ancient heritage or an appreciation for mythology. In modern spirituality and neopaganism, Nephthys may be invoked for guidance, protection, or as a symbol of nurturing energy within the home. Despite its ancient roots, the name continues to resonate with those seeking deeper meanings tied to family, home, and the sacred feminine.

      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

      Explore the origins of another name.