Ismini or Ismene is a female Greek name whose origins are found in Ancient Greece.
The name Ismini or Ismene derives possibly from the Greek word isme which means “knowledge”.
Sound of name Ismini: Ee-smeé-neeh
Male Version of name Ismini: N/A
Nameday of Ismini: September 1st
Origin of name Ismini – The 40 Virgins
According to the Greek Orthodox Calendar, the name Ismini refers to a woman who was one of the 40 Virgins that were killed in Andrianoupolis in Thrace.
There were 4o young female students in the city of Andrianoupolis that refused to participate in the pagan feasts of the local ruler because they were Christians.
The ruler of the city tortured them trying to persuade them to adopt the pagan beliefs, but when he realized that they were not willing to change their beliefs he sent them to Licinius, the ruler of Thrace, who tortured and killed them.
One of them was Ismini, who was recognized as a Saint by the Greek orthodox church, along with other women such as Antigone, Aspasia, Penelope and more.
Ismene in Ancient Greece
However, the name Ismini or Ismene is also known from the Greek mythology and Greek history, as one of the daughters of King Oedipus of Thebes (the other daughter was Antigoni). Ismene was the youngest daughter and the least brave of the two.
When Antigoni opposed to King Kreon, Ismene tried to prevent her sister from doing so, thinking that women are not supposed to oppose to the power of the King, even if he is wrong and tyrannic in his decisions. When Antigoni died, Ismene became the priestess of Goddess Athena.
Nicknames deriving from name Ismini
Ismini does not have any nicknames or diminutives
The Names’ Fairy reveals the meaning of name Ismini
Ismini is an introverted and rather weak woman. She is not a person of initiatives, so she usually prefers to set safe goals, without taking any risks.