In Hesiod’s myth, Zeus gave Pandora her name.
Pandora’s name comes from Greek elements often understood as meaning “all-gifted” or “all-giving.” Hesiod presents her as a specially created woman whose gifts came from the gods. Zeus orders her creation as part of his punishment of humanity after Prometheus steals fire from Olympus.
The name reflects the myth’s emphasis on divine craftsmanship. Hephaestus shapes Pandora from earth, while other gods provide qualities or adornments. Athena teaches her crafts, Aphrodite grants beauty, and Hermes gives her a deceptive or persuasive character in Hesiod’s account. The exact presentation varies between ancient passages and later retellings.
Pandora is therefore not simply a curious character in the oldest version. She is a deliberate divine creation and part of Zeus’s larger response to Prometheus. Later versions often simplify the story, making the container and Pandora’s curiosity the main focus while leaving out the name’s connection with gifts from the gods.