WebJan 21, 2022 · Meaning & History. Probably derived from Greek πηνέλοψ (penelops), a type of duck. Alternatively it could be from πήνη ( pene) meaning "threads, weft" and ὄψ ( ops) meaning "face, eye". In Homer 's epic the Odyssey this is the name of the wife of Odysseus, forced to fend off suitors while her husband is away fighting at Troy.