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Anthea

Girl name · 50 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Anthea: 50 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 13 births in 1974.

Anthea is a name of Greek origin, derived from *antheia* (ἄνθεια), meaning "blossom" or "flower," and is a direct epithet of the Greek goddess Hera. In classical myth, the name was associated with spring and floral beauty. A famous bearer is actress Anthea Turner, best known for her presenting work on *Blue Peter* in the 1990s. The name shares its root with the botanical term *anther*, the pollen-bearing part of a flower, giving it a subtle scientific connection. While not directly tied to a specific place, Anthea saw a modest peak in popularity in Scotland during the 1960s and 70s but remains a rare, vintage choice today, often chosen by parents seeking a classical alternative to popular floral names like Lily or Rose.