Hecate
/ˈhɛkəti/noun
A goddess associated with magic, witchcraft, the moon, and ghosts in ancient mythology.
Did you know?Hecate is often depicted holding torches and keys, symbolizing her power to illuminate the dark and unlock hidden knowledge.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*kʷekʷlo-
“to call, to summon, related to invoking divine forces.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
Ἑκάτη (Hekatē)
“Goddess of magic, often invoked in rituals and spells.”
Hellenistic Period
Greek
Ἑκάτης (Hekatēs)
“Gained associations with the moon and night.”
Roman Era
Latin
Hecate
“Adopted into Roman religion, retaining her mystical associations.”
Medieval Latin
Medieval Latin
Hecatē
“Continued to symbolize witchcraft and the occult in texts.”
Modern English
English
Hecate
“Remains a prominent figure in occult practices and literature.”