In Greek mythology, Epimetheus’s name literally means “afterthought,” contrasting with Prometheus’s association with forethought.
The names come from Greek elements connected with thinking and learning. Prometheus is commonly interpreted as “forethought,” while Epimetheus is interpreted as “afterthought” or thought afterward. This contrast reflects their different roles in myth: Prometheus is portrayed as clever and anticipatory, whereas Epimetheus acts without the same caution.
Hesiod’s Works and Days identifies Epimetheus as the figure who accepted Pandora despite Prometheus’s warning not to receive gifts from Zeus. Pandora later opened the container that released troubles into the human world. The naming contrast therefore helps explain the brothers’ narrative opposition.
Translations vary in wording, so “afterthought” and “hindsight” may both appear in reference works. “Afterthought” is the standard concise rendering. Epimetheus should not be confused with the Saturnian moon bearing the same name, which was named after this mythological figure.