Kassandra

Girl Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/kəˈsændrə/

Kassandra: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā ‎(Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr ‎(ἀνήρ) andrós ‎(ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male)". It derives from the Greek word "kaínumi / kékasmai anḗr ‎/ andrós > Kassándra".

Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Kassandra, drawn to its Greek heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā ‎(Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr ‎(ἀνήρ) andrós ‎(ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male)". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.

Quick Facts About Kassandra

Quick facts about Kassandra
OriginGreek
GenderGirl name
PopularityUncommon

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 “Kassándrā ‎(Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr ‎(ἀνήρ) andrós ‎(ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

kaínumi / kékasmai anḗr ‎/ andrós > Kassándra

How to Pronounce Kassandra

Kassandra is pronounced /kəˈsændrə/(Greek)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Kas-san-dra
  2. Say it like: "KOOHSANDROOH"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Kassandra enjoys international appeal, used in 7 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, norwegian, icelandic, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishnorwegianicelandicswedishdanishfinnishgerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Kassandra
What does the name Kassandra mean?
Kassandra means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā ‎(Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr ‎(ἀνήρ) andrós ‎(ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander.". The name comes from kaínumi / kékasmai anḗr ‎/ andrós > Kassándra. In its original form, the name derives from kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι) anḗr ‎(ἀνήρ) andrós ‎(ἀνδρός) Kassándrā ‎(Κασσάνδρᾱ). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Kassandra for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā ‎(Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr ‎(ἀνήρ) andrós ‎(ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Kassandra offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. The name is associated with qualities like GREEK MYTHOLOGY (SEERS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Kassandra?
Kassandra is a greek name. The name traces back to kaínumi / kékasmai anḗr ‎/ andrós > Kassándra. The original form kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι) anḗr ‎(ἀνήρ) andrós ‎(ἀνδρός) Kassándrā ‎(Κασσάνδρᾱ) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Kassandra spread to become common in english, norwegian, icelandic, swedish and other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā ‎(Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr ‎(ἀνήρ) andrós ‎(ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Kassandra a boy or girl name?
Kassandra 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, Kassandra has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā ‎(Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr ‎(ἀνήρ) andrós ‎(ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Kassandra?
Kassandra is pronounced "/kəˈsændrə/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Kassandra is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, norwegian, icelandic, 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 Kassandra can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root kaínumi / kékasmai anḗr ‎/ andrós > Kassándra influences how Kassandra sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Kassandra?
Kassandra is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Kassandra gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Kassandra'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 “Kassándrā ‎(Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr ‎(ἀνήρ) andrós ‎(ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Kassandra holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Kassandra commonly used?
Kassandra spans multiple cultures, including english, norwegian, icelandic, and 4 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Kassandra found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Kassandra, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā ‎(Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr ‎(ἀνήρ) andrós ‎(ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Kassandra into their naming traditions. A child named Kassandra 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, Kassandra is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Kassandra?
Kassandra carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (SEERS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kassándrā ‎(Κασσάνδρᾱ),” composed of two elements: “kaínumi (Καίνυμι) kékasmai (κέκασμαι)” (excel, surpass, transcend) plus “anḗr ‎(ἀνήρ) andrós ‎(ἀνδρός)” (man “adult male). In turn, the name means “the one who shines and excels over a man (a person who makes predictions which are never believed but turn out to be true).” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy. Her beauty caused Apollo to grant her the gift of prophecy. Kassandros son of Antipatros; (350–297 BC), was a Greek Hellenistic king of Ancient Macedon (305–297 BC), son of Antipater, and founder of the Antipatrid dynasty. He was the namesake of his paternal uncle, Cassander." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Kassandra originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Kassandra sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Kassandra often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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