In Greek mythology, Hermes names Pandora after giving her the power of speech.
Hesiod’s Theogony connects Hermes with Pandora’s name and with the deceptive speech she receives. The name Pandora is usually explained through Greek elements meaning “all-gifted” or “all-giving,” reflecting the many gifts supplied by the gods who create her.
Hermes is an especially fitting figure for this role. Greek mythology associates him with communication, persuasion, boundaries, travel, and cunning. In the Pandora story, his contribution is not simply the ability to talk; it is speech characterized by deceit, helping make Pandora a dangerous gift in Zeus’s plan.
The best-known version of the story often says only that Zeus named Pandora. That detail belongs to simplified retellings. Hesiod’s Theogony specifically associates the naming and speech-giving with Hermes, while other ancient accounts distribute the creation details differently.