Meaning, origin, history
Dana is a name of Hebrew origin that means "song" or "melody." It is derived from the Hebrew word "dunam," which refers to music or song. In some traditions, Dana is also associated with the goddess Dana, who was believed to have brought the arts of civilization to Ireland.
The name Dana has been used for centuries and can be traced back to ancient times. It was used by the ancient Hebrews as a term of endearment for their children, and it appears in the Hebrew Bible as the name of one of King David's wives. In Irish mythology, Dana is the name of a goddess who played a significant role in the development of Celtic culture.
Today, Dana is still a popular name around the world. It is often given to girls but can also be used for boys. Some famous people with the name Dana include American actresses Dana Delany and Dana Ivey, as well as Canadian singer-songwriter Dan Mangan, who uses his full first name professionally.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Dana since 1880
Total births
193,076
Total since 1880
Peak year
1971
6,934 births
in 2023
264
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-5%
→
vs previous 5 years