Lina is unique in that it can be a nickname for other given names, but it also has Arabic, Greek, Persian, and Sanskrit origins. It's been popular in the United States for well over a century and remains on the list of the top 1,000 baby names for girls as of 2022. It's also pretty popular in several European countries, China, and the Middle East. Somehow, Lina manages to sound current and classic at once, making it one of a handful of names that stand the test of time and transcends many cultures.
Meaning and Origin of the Name Lina:
Lina's a rare name with multiple origins. First, some simply say it's a derivative or nickname of names like Angelina, Paulina, or Carolina. In this case, it would take on the meaning of whichever name it was derived from.
In Arabic, Lina is the name of a type of palm tree and it means “tender”.
In Sanskrit, the name means “united”.
In Greek, it means “sunlight,” while in Persian, it means “ray of light”.
Symbolism of the Name Lina:
Any symbolism offered by Lina is largely related to which origin story you relate to most. New parents may choose the name to honor a loved one named Carolina, Angelina, or something similar. For those who like the Arabic origin, they may find symbolism in the “tender” meaning. The palm tree is also thought to symbolize, peace, victory, and eternal life. Finally, those who like the Sanskrit origins may find symbolism in the meaning “united”. Perhaps baby Lina unites her family. The Greek and Persian meanings of “sunlight” or “ray of light” can also be symbolic — Lina may be a ray of light in her new family.
Nicknames for the Name Lina:
Lina can be hard to nickname. Fortunately, we're here to help. We've put together a solid list of nicknames for Lina. Take your time with each option and pick the best one!
Style of the Name Lina:
Traditional, international
Gender of the Name Lina:
Lina is a girl's name.
Pronunciation of the Name Lina:
LEE-nah
Number of Syllables in the Name Lina:
Two
Emotion Evoked From the Name Lina:
The baby name Lina evokes images of someone who is a good friend to others and always goes out of her way to do the right thing.
Alternative Spellings for the Name Lina:
- Lena
- Leena
- Lyna
- Leina
- Leyna
Popularity of the Name Lina:
According to the Social Security Administration, Lina has been a top 1,000 baby name for girls in the United States on and off since at least 1900. It was most popular in 1907 when it ranked at number 397. It last ranked at number 578 in 2022.
Related Names for the Name Lina:
Great Middle Names for Lina and Their Meanings:
- Margaret (pearl)
- Abigail (father's joy)
- Elizabeth (pledged to God)
- Grace (God's grace)
- Hazel (hazelnut tree)
- Harper (harp player)
- Dawn (daybreak)
- Ann (grace)
- Jordan (flowing down)
Famous People with the Name Lina:
- Lina Wertmuller (director)
- Lina Krasnoroutskaya (tennis player)
- Lina Scheynius (photographer)
- Lina Posada (model and fashion designer)
- Lina Johansson (figure skater)
Lina in Popular Culture:
- Lina Lamont (character from the movie “Singin' in the Rain”)
- Lina Mayfleet (character in the “Books of Ember” series)
- Lina McLaidlaw (character in the movie “Suspicion”)
- Lina (character in the book “Goddess of Spring”)
- Lina Vilkas (character in the book “Between Shades of Gray”)
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