Of Greek origin.
From the Greek word “πηνέλωψ”, penelops, which is some kind of bird, of duck.
In Homer’s epic “Odyssey”, Penelope is the name of Odysseus’s, king of Ithaca, wife.
She is the daughter of Icarius and Periboea.While waiting for her husband’s return from the Trojan war, she fabricates several ways to avoid marrying any of her suitors.
When Odysseus finally returns, after twenty years, he finds Penelope waiting patiently and faithfully.
Penelope has been in use as an English given name since the 16th century.
Penelope is one of the fastest rising names in the United States.
Other forms of the name are: Penny, Pen, Popi, Pennie.
Famous bearers are Penélope Cruz, Penelope Ann Miller, Penelope Wilton, Penelope Keith, Penelope Fitzgerald, Penelope Mitchell, Penelope Corrin.
Spanish actress Penélope Cruz made her debut in films in Raphael Alcazar’s film “The Greek labyrinth”.
After her leading role in th the success F. Trueba’s film “Belle Epoque”, she had the chance to work with Pedro Almodóvar, in films such as “Live Flesh” and “All about my mother”.
She later co-starred with Tom Cruise, Matt Damon and Johnny Depp. In 2008 she received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Woody Allen’s “Vicky Cristina Barcelona”.