Meaning, origin, history
Melena is a name of Greek origin and it means "dark" or "black". It is derived from the Greek word "melas", which also means black. Historically, Melena was a name given to girls born with dark hair or complexion in ancient Greece.
The name Melena has been used throughout history, but it is not as popular as other Greek names such as Helena or Sophia. However, there are some notable historical figures named Melena, including the 4th century saint Melania the Elder, who was a wealthy Roman woman known for her philanthropy and piety.
In literature, Melena has been used as a character name in several works, most notably in the novel "The House of Spirits" by Isabel Allende. In this novel, Melena is one of the main characters and is portrayed as a strong-willed and independent woman.
Overall, Melena is a unique and distinctive name with a rich historical background. Despite its rarity, it has been used throughout history and continues to be an appealing choice for parents looking for a meaningful and memorable name for their daughter.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Melena since 1880
Total births
1,231
Total since 1880
Peak year
2001
52 births
in 2023
9
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-11%
↘
vs previous 5 years