Sappho
/ˈsæf.oʊ/noun
An ancient Greek lyric poet from the island of Lesbos, traditionally dated to the late seventh and early sixth centuries BCE.
Did you know?Sappho’s original Aeolic form was probably Psappha, but the name’s ultimate meaning and linguistic origin remain uncertain.
Etymological Timeline
Late 7th–early 6th century BCE
Aeolic Greek
Psappha
“The poet’s name in the Aeolic dialect; its original meaning is uncertain.”
Classical Greek
Greek
Sapphō
“The standard Greek form of the poet’s name.”
1st century BCE–1st century CE
Latin
Sappho
“Latin rendering of the Greek poet’s name.”
16th century
English
Sappho
“English use of the classical name for the ancient Greek poet.”
19th century
English
Sapphic
“Relating to Sappho, her poetry, or poetic forms associated with her.”
Modern English
English
Sapphism
“Sexual or romantic relationships between women, named from Sappho’s poetry and reputation.”