In Greek mythology, what is Prometheus’s name commonly translated as?

In Greek mythology, Prometheus’s name is commonly translated as “forethought.” The meaning contrasts with his brother Epimetheus, whose name is commonly translated as “afterthought.”

The contrast is especially important in the Pandora story. Prometheus anticipates that Zeus’s gifts may conceal a danger and warns Epimetheus not to accept anything from Zeus. Epimetheus ignores the warning, accepts Pandora, and becomes connected with the release of suffering into the human world.

Prometheus is best known for stealing fire from the gods and giving it to humanity. Zeus responds by ordering the creation of Pandora and by punishing Prometheus separately. The name “forethought” therefore suits both the mythological wordplay and Prometheus’s role as a clever benefactor who understands the likely consequences of divine retaliation.