Cleopatra: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father)".It derives from the Greek word "kléos patḗr / patrós > Kleópatros".
Cleopatra is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father)". Its Greek origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.
Quick Facts About Cleopatra
Quick facts about Cleopatra
Origin
Greek
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Uncommon
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
kléos patḗr / patrós > Kleópatros
How to Pronounce Cleopatra
Cleopatra is pronounced /ˌkliːəˈpætrə/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Cleop-atra
Say it like: "KLEEOOHPATROOH"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across english, ancient Greek (Latinized), and italian speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
englishancient Greek (Latinized)italian
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleopatra
What does the name Cleopatra mean?
Cleopatra means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III.". The name comes from kléos patḗr / patrós > Kleópatros. In its original form, the name derives from kléos (κλέος) patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός) Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Cleopatra for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Cleopatra offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices.
What is the origin of the name Cleopatra?
Cleopatra is a greek name. The name traces back to kléos patḗr / patrós > Kleópatros. The original form kléos (κλέος) patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός) Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Cleopatra spread to become common in english, ancient Greek (Latinized), italian. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Cleopatra a boy or girl name?
Cleopatra is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Cleopatra has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Cleopatra?
Cleopatra is pronounced "/ˌkliːəˈpætrə/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Cleopatra is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, ancient Greek (Latinized), italian, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Cleopatra can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root kléos patḗr / patrós > Kleópatros influences how Cleopatra sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Cleopatra?
Cleopatra is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Cleopatra gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Cleopatra's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Cleopatra holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Cleopatra commonly used?
Cleopatra is common in english and ancient Greek (Latinized) and italian naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Cleopatra found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Cleopatra, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Cleopatra into their naming traditions. A child named Cleopatra will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Cleopatra is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.