Origin and Meaning of Sibyl

Prophetess, oracle

Origin: Greek - Derived from the Greek word 'sibylla', which referred to a woman who could predict the future. The term has roots in ancient Rome and was used to describe women who served as oracles.

• Sibyls were revered figures in ancient cultures, particularly in Greece and Rome, where they were believed to possess divine knowledge and foresight.
• In ancient literature, Sibyls are often mentioned as prophetic figures, with the most famous being the Cumaean Sibyl, who appears in Virgil's 'Aeneid'.
• Sibyl has been used in various forms and contexts in literature, music, and art, influencing several well-known works over the centuries.
• The name Sibyl saw a resurgence in popularity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a unique and classic alternative to more common names.
• Variations and related names include Sybil, an alternative spelling, as well as the names Sibella and Cibele, which stem from similar roots.