The Greek name Pandora means “all-gifted” or “all-giving.” It comes from Greek roots commonly analyzed as pan, meaning “all,” and doron, meaning “gift.”
The name fits Hesiod’s account because the gods collectively give Pandora qualities, adornments, and abilities. It does not necessarily mean that every gift is beneficial. In the Works and Days, the divine contributions are part of a deceptive punishment, so the name carries an ironic edge in the story.
Pandora’s name is also sometimes connected with an epithet of the earth goddess, although the relationship between that cult title and Hesiod’s character is debated by scholars. For a general reading of the myth, the safest direct point is the transparent meaning “all-gifted.” The similar names Prometheus and Epimetheus have different meanings and should not be substituted for Pandora.