What does the Greek name “Pandora” literally refer to in the myth?

The Greek name “Pandora” refers to “all gifts” in the myth.

The name is formed from Greek elements commonly understood as pan, meaning “all,” and doron, meaning “gift.” It reflects the story’s creation scene, in which the gods give Pandora various qualities, adornments, or abilities. The name therefore emphasizes that she is presented as a collective divine creation rather than made by one god alone.

Translations and interpretations sometimes render the name as “all-gifted” or “the gift of all,” and scholars have discussed how the grammar should be understood. Regardless of the preferred wording, the name is connected to the gifts bestowed by the gods. Pandora is not originally described simply as a curious woman in a domestic tale; her name and arrival are tied to Zeus’s punishment after Prometheus gives fire to humanity. That context is essential to the older Greek version.