Which Titan’s name means “forethought” in the myth surrounding Pandora?

Prometheus is the Titan whose name is commonly interpreted as meaning “forethought” in the myth surrounding Pandora. He is famous for stealing fire from the gods and giving it to humanity, an act that brought punishment from Zeus.

Prometheus’s role helps explain why Zeus sends Pandora in the broader mythic sequence. Zeus wants to punish humanity and Prometheus after the theft of fire, while Prometheus’s brother Epimetheus later accepts Pandora despite the warning against accepting gifts from Zeus.

The contrast between the brothers is built into their names. Prometheus suggests thinking ahead, whereas Epimetheus suggests thinking afterward. This wordplay became an important interpretive feature of the story.

The name’s translation is approximate rather than a modern dictionary definition. Greek names can carry layered meanings, and ancient myths often use those meanings symbolically. Still, “forethought” and “afterthought” are the standard English glosses in discussions of the two Titans.