Lina is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "lina," which means "linen" or "flax." The name Lina was first used as a given name in the late 19th century, but it gained popularity in the mid-20th century and has since become widely recognized.
Lina was popularized by the Swedish writer Selma Lagerlöf's novel "The Tale of Gosta Berling," which was published in 1891. The main character in the novel is a woman named Lina, who is depicted as strong-willed and independent. This portrayal contributed to the name's rise in popularity.
In literature, Lina has also appeared in other notable works such as "Lina and the Secret of the Cellar" by Australian author Libby Hathorn, which was published in 1987. This children's book helped further popularize the name Lina in Australia and beyond.
Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals named Lina who have made significant contributions in various fields. For instance, Lina Bo Bardi was an Italian architect known for her modernist designs, while Lina Romay was a Spanish actress famous for her work in exploitation films.
Today, Lina continues to be a popular name worldwide, with variations such as Line and Lila also being widely used. Its meanings of "linen" or "flax," along with its association with strong female characters in literature, make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a unique yet meaningful name for their daughter.
Lina is a name that has been used in the United States for at least one year, as there was at least one birth recorded with this name in 1985. However, it is not among the most popular names during this time period, with only five births reported nationwide. This indicates that Lina may have been more of a unique or distinctive choice rather than a commonly used name in the United States during this particular year.