In Greek mythology, what was Pandora’s husband Epimetheus’s name translated as?

In Greek mythology, Epimetheus’s name is commonly translated as “afterthought.” The Greek name is formed in contrast with Prometheus, his brother, whose name is associated with forethought or advance thinking.

That contrast is central to the Pandora story. Prometheus recognizes Zeus’s plan and warns Epimetheus not to accept gifts from the god. Epimetheus nevertheless accepts Pandora, and only afterward does the danger connected with her container become clear. His name therefore functions as a piece of characterization as well as a translation.

The name is not a modern nickname invented for the story. It comes from Greek word formation and appears in ancient mythological tradition. Translations vary slightly, with “afterthought” being the most familiar English rendering.

Epimetheus is sometimes confused with Prometheus because both are Titans and brothers. Their narrative roles differ sharply: Prometheus is the clever benefactor of humanity, while Epimetheus represents delayed understanding and becomes Pandora’s husband in Hesiod’s account.