Dina

Meaning & origin

Dina has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States since its first recorded use in 1883. It reached its peak rank in 1969, when it was most commonly given to girls. Since 1985, its usage has been on a downward trajectory, though it remains a recognizable choice. The name has been especially popular in New York, New Jersey, and Maryland. While its Hebrew origins tie it to the biblical Dinah, its modern usage sometimes overlaps with the English name Deena or as a diminutive for longer names. Dina carries a straightforward, classic sound that fits well with other short, vowel-ending names.

Dina is most commonly seen as a variant of Dinah, a biblical name from the Old Testament, where Dinah is the daughter of Jacob and Leah. The name is derived from the Hebrew word 'din,' meaning 'judgment' or 'vindication.' In modern use, Dina may also be a shortened form of longer names like Bernadina or a respelling of Deena. It has been used in English-speaking countries since at least the 19th century.