Ophelia is a feminine given name of Greek origin, derived from the word “Åphéleia, †meaning "help" or "benefit. " The name has a rich history, dating back to the 15th century when it was first used in Jacopo Sannazaro's poem Arcadia. Ophelia 's cultural significance is linked to Shakespeare's character, but its popularity did not significantly increase until the 21st century, after having been largely absent from the top 1, 000 names for decades. The name has seen a resurgence in popularity since 2015, becoming a timeless and elegant choice for parents. Ophelia symbolizes beauty, and a sense of aid, making it an important name that evokes both positive and tragic connotations.
