Aphrodite: Meaning & Origin of the Goddess of Love and Beauty

Aphrodite (Ἀφροδίτη) is the Greek goddess of love, beauty, pleasure, and procreation. Her Roman equivalent is Venus. The name Aphrodite is derived from the Greek word aphrós (ἀφρός), meaning "foam". According to Hesiod's Theogony, Aphrodite was born from the foam that was created when Cronus castrated his father Uranus and threw his genitals into the sea. Alternatively, Aphrodite is said to be the daughter of Zeus and Dione.

In Greek mythology, Aphrodite is often depicted as a beautiful woman with long flowing hair and a perfect body. She is usually shown wearing a white gown and accompanied by doves or cupids. Aphrodite is also associated with the rose, the myrtle, and the apple.

Aphrodite was worshipped throughout the ancient Greek world. She had many temples and shrines, and was often invoked in prayers and hymns. Aphrodite was also a popular subject in Greek art and literature.