The word for butterfly in formal Greek is psyche, thought to be the soul of the dead. ... The metamorphosis of the butterfly inspired many to use butterflies as a symbol of the soul's exit from the body. Thus, the myth of Psyche concomitantly signifies soul and butterfly.

What is the Greek name for butterfly?

Greek and Minoan. Aristotle gave the butterfly the name psyche , the Greek word for soul. Many cultures relate butterflies to the human soul. In ancient Greek the word for butterfly is "psyche" which means "soul", and was also the name of Eros' human lover.

What symbolizes a butterfly?

Butterflies are not only beautiful, but also have mystery, symbolism and meaning and are a metaphor representing spiritual rebirth, transformation, change, hope and life. The magnificent, yet short life of the butterfly closely mirrors the process of spiritual transformation and serves to remind us that life is short.