Rising since 2004, #627 for girls today.
Popularity of Winona since 1880
Babies named Winona per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 108 |
| 1890s | 206 |
| 1900s | 376 |
| 1910s | 1,517 |
| 1920s | 2,430 |
| 1930s | 1,888 |
| 1940s | 1,076 |
| 1950s | 1,057 |
| 1960s | 726 |
| 1970s | 481 |
| 1980s | 245 |
| 1990s | 340 |
| 2000s | 195 |
| 2010s | 550 |
| 2020s | 1,758 |
Meaning & origin
Winona, meaning 'firstborn daughter' in Dakota Sioux, has seen a steady resurgence in use. First recorded in 1880, it reached its rank of 627 in 2025, with a peak in that same year, reflecting its recent rise in popularity. The trajectory shows rising usage since 2004, with a 1-in-3,449 frequency. Winona is most popular in Maine, North Dakota, and Wisconsin, states with strong regional and cultural ties to the name. Its blend of Native American heritage and melodic sound has contributed to its modern appeal.
Winona is derived from the Dakota Sioux word 'wiŋóna' meaning 'firstborn daughter.' It is a traditional name among the Dakota people, often given to the eldest daughter in a family. The name entered broader American use in the 19th century and gained recognition through figures such as Native American activist Winona LaDuke and actress Winona Ryder.
Where Winona is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Winona” around the world
Where Winona lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Winnie, Nona, Wino
Sibling names for Winona
Names that share Winona's style, for a brother or sister.
