Photine is a feminine given name of Ancient Greek origin, derived from the Greek word φῶς (phos), genitive φωτός (photos), meaning “light.” The name is a feminine form of Photios and is closely related to the variant Photina.
In Christian tradition, Photine is the name traditionally given to the Samaritan woman whom Jesus met at Jacob's well, as recounted in the Gospel of John (John 4:7). According to Eastern Orthodox tradition, after her encounter with Christ, she became a fervent believer and was later martyred under the Roman emperor Nero. She is venerated as a saint in the Eastern Church, known as Saint Photine the Samaritan. Her feast day is celebrated on March 20.
The name Photine, meaning “light,” metaphorically reflects the spiritual enlightenment she received. The name has been used primarily in Greek-speaking and Slavic Orthodox contexts, with modern Greek forms including Foteini and Fotini.
- Meaning: Of or relating to light
- Origin: Ancient Greek
- Type: Feminine
- Usage Regions: Historically in Greek and Eastern Orthodox communities
Sources: Wiktionary — Photine