Meaning & Origin
The mother of Perseus by Zeus.
Danae is a girl's and boy's baby name of Greek origin meaning 'she who judges' or simply 'Danae,' one of the most iconic figures in Greek mythology. Zeus visited Danae in a shower of golden light, and she became the mother of Perseus, the hero who slew Medusa.
Danae carries the weight of myth and beauty — she was imprisoned by her father, chosen by a god, and mother to a hero. The name was a favorite subject for Renaissance painters including Titian and Rembrandt. Rare but recognizable, it's a deeply classical choice with stunning artistic associations.