Luna is a feminine given name of Latin origin, derived from the word "luna" which means "moon". The name Luna has been popular throughout history and has been associated with various historical figures and mythological characters.
In Roman mythology, Luna was the goddess of the moon. She was often depicted as a young woman driving a chariot drawn by two horses or oxen across the night sky. In some versions of the myth, Luna was also the mother of the sun god Sol and the sister of the god of sleep Somnus.
In literature, Luna is also a prominent character in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series. Luna Lovegood, who appears throughout the series as a fellow student at Hogwarts, is known for her eccentric behavior and her belief in magical creatures that others consider imaginary or fictional. Her name reflects her connection to the moon and its mysteries.
The name Luna has also been popular among royalty and nobility throughout history. In Spain, Queen Isabella II had a daughter named Luisa Fernanda who was often called "Luna" by her family and friends. More recently, Princess Catherine of Siena, born into the Italian nobility, was given the name Lucrezia in honor of her mother's ancestor, Lucrezia Borgia.
Today, Luna continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their daughters. Its association with the moon gives it a mystical and romantic quality, while its Latin origins add a touch of classic elegance. Whether inspired by mythology, literature, or history, those who choose the name Luna are likely drawn to its beauty and timelessness.
The name Lu has seen a consistent yet modest presence in the United States over the years, with an average of six births per year between 1918 and 2022, except for a slight dip to five births in 2022. This consistency is evident from the statistics showing six births each in 1918, 1919, 1995, 2020, and 2021. Over this 104-year span, a total of 35 babies have been born with the name Lu.