Talk:Aphidna

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Google Gemini: etymology

The etymology of Ancient Greek Ἄφιδνα (Aphidna) is uncertain, but it likely comes from the name of the mythical figure Aphidnus, or is related to a plant, as suggested by its connection to the word "aphid" or the concept of "unreachable" from the asphodel flower's name.

Possible Origins

Aphidnus:

Ἄφιδνα is a fortified town in Attica and the site where the hero Theseus deposited Helen of Troy. The name of the town may derive from the personal name of Aphidnus, a friend of Theseus, under whose care Helen was placed.

Plant Connection:

The name may also have a connection to plants. There is a possible link to the modern word "aphid" (a small insect), which could be related to the word for the "asphodel" plant.

Other Theories:

Some scholars suggest the name might relate to the word a-sphallō, meaning "unreachable" or "unobtainable". This theory suggests that the word "Aphidna" could be related to the flowers of the asphodel plant because the flowers are difficult to surpass. 2A02:587:4F03:200:245E:9A41:B384:5D47 (talk) 18:14, 19 September 2025 (UTC)[reply]