Of Greek origin.

Daphne means “laurel” in Greek.

In Greek mythology, Daphne was a Naiad nymph of the Peneios river.

The Naiads were nymphs associated with fresh water, springs, fountains, etc.

Several myths are associated with Daphne.

According to one of the myths, Apollon the god was in love with her and he pursued her until, exhausted as she was, cried out for help from goddess Gaia, who transformed her into a laurel tree to escape Apollon.

Another myth claims Daphne as a Delphic prophetic priestess.

Since the end of the 19th century it has been used as a given name in English speaking countries too.

Alternative forms of the name are: Daphné, Dafne, Dafina.

Famous bearers are Daphne du Maurier, Daphne Zuniga, Daphne Reid, Daphne Ashbrook.