Cynthia
Girl Name English, Greek Mythology (Latinized) origin
Origin
English, Greek Mythology (Latinized)
Syllables
2
First Letter
C
Popularity
41/100

Meaning of Cynthia

Latinized form of Greek (Kynthia) which means "woman from Kynthos".

Origin: English, Greek Mythology (Latinized)

About the Name Cynthia

With its two clean syllables, Cynthia is a feminine name with a history in the British naming tradition - names that spread globally through the colonial era and have since been adopted across all of major communities as the country developed its unique cultural identity. The name means "Latinized form of Greek (Kynthia) which means "woman from Kynthos".". It is a quietly distinctive girl name, less frequently given but always recognised as thoughtful and intentional. The meaning "Latinized form of Greek (Kynthia) which means "woman from Kynthos"." often traces back to Old English, Old French, Latin, or Germanic roots - layers of history embedded in a name that today feels simply modern. English names internationally bridge the global and the local, familiar at an international conference and at the hawker centre.

The practical question of how Cynthia flows with the family surname is worth considering. The name pairs naturally with a wide range of surnames across different communities and is universally familiar to teachers, peers, and employers. Names beginning with 'C' tend to have a decisive, memorable quality - easy to announce and easy to remember, internationally and beyond. Choosing Cynthia signals that you have looked beyond the obvious - it is a name that carries heritage without following trends.

Sound & Flow

Cynthia is a 2-syllable name. Test it with your family surname to hear how it flows. For example: Cynthia Tan, Cynthia Lee, or Cynthia Ng.

Pronunciation varies by community.

Cultural Context

Crosses cultural boundaries easily and is used across Chinese, Eurasian, and mixed-heritage families. Works well with both English and Chinese surnames.

Name Style & Tags

Popularity Through History

See all-time rankings →

Rank in California top 25 (1 = most popular). Bars represent years the name charted - Hover for rank.

#4
1960
#5
1961
#5
1962
#5
1963
#6
1964
#6
1965
#6
1966
#7
1967
#9
1968
#8
1969
#10
1970
#10
1971
#13
1972
#15
1973
#20
1974
#23
1975
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Bar height = popularity rank (taller = higher rank) Hover for exact rank by year

Name Facts & Trivia

Name length
7 letters
Longer name - Often carries a natural nickname.
Syllable pattern
2 syllables
Two-syllable names are the most popular pattern across cultures.
First letter
C
Browse more names starting with C
Gender
Girl
A traditionally girl name across most cultures.

Famous People Named Cynthia

Prominent figures who share this name - Drawn from global culture, sports, and public life.

This name has been carried by notable individuals across many fields including arts, sports, science, and public service globally.

Want to discover names with similar fame? Try our name generator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Latinized form of Greek (Kynthia) which means "woman from Kynthos". Its English, Greek Mythology (Latinized) roots give it a timeless quality that resonates across generations.
Cynthia has a popularity score of 41/100. It sits comfortably in the mid-range — recognisable without being ubiquitous.
Cynthia is traditionally a girl name with English, Greek Mythology (Latinized) origins. It has been used consistently for girls across different cultures and generations.
Test the name across all languages your family speaks to ensure it sounds natural. If you come from a multilingual household, say it in each language you use at home before deciding.
The best middle names for Cynthia depend on your surname and cultural background. Cynthia is versatile — it works with both short and longer middle names. Use our name generator to explore combinations.
Natural nicknames for Cynthia often emerge from how family members start using it. At 2 syllables, there are natural places to shorten it. Try different variations until one feels right for your family.

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