In Hesiod’s Greek myth, what does the name “Pandora” literally mean?

In Hesiod’s Greek myth, Pandora’s name literally means “All-gifted.”

The name comes from the Greek elements pan, meaning “all,” and doron, meaning “gift.” It refers to the gifts given to Pandora by the gods before she was sent to humanity. Hesiod presents her creation as part of Zeus’s punishment after Prometheus stole fire for mortals.

Different ancient sources use slightly different interpretations of the name. In the Theogony, Pandora is associated with the gifts of the gods, while in Works and Days she is introduced as the first woman and as a source of trouble for humankind. Her name therefore carries an intentional contrast: she is beautifully and richly endowed, but her arrival brings suffering.

“All-gifted” is sometimes confused with “all-giving.” The former emphasizes that Pandora received gifts from all the gods; it does not mean that she personally gave everything to humanity.