Pandora is commonly explained from Greek elements meaning “all-gifted” or “all-giving.”
The name is traditionally connected with pan, meaning “all,” and doron, meaning “gift.” This interpretation fits Hesiod's description of a woman who receives contributions from multiple gods. Each deity supplies a quality or adornment, making Pandora a collective divine creation.
Some scholarly discussions note that ancient Greek names and epithets can carry more than one nuance. Pandora may also be connected with the idea of giving all or receiving gifts from all the gods. The “all-gifted” explanation remains the standard answer in general accounts of the myth.
Pandora's name should not be confused with elpis, the Greek word commonly translated as “hope,” or with Epimetheus, her husband. These terms belong to different parts of the story. The name's etymology helps explain why the myth emphasizes the many gods who contribute to her creation.