Meaning, origin, history
The name Dana is of Irish origin and it means "little" or "short". It is derived from the Gaelic word "dana", which has the same meaning.
The name Dana has been used in Ireland for centuries, but its popularity as a given name for girls has increased significantly in recent years. It is often associated with the Irish goddess of wisdom and craftsmanship, Anu Dana, who was believed to grant inspiration and creativity to those who invoked her.
In literature, Dana appears as a character in several works, including "The Dana Girls Mystery Series" by Carolyn Keene, and "Dana's Devotion" by Emily Carroll. In popular culture, notable individuals named Dana include American actress Dana Ivey, Canadian singer-songwriter Dana Gascon, and Australian swimmer Dawn Fraser (born Dana Ferguson).
Overall, the name Dana is a unique and beautiful choice for a girl, with a rich history and meaningful origin that spans centuries of Irish tradition and culture.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Dana since 1880
Total births
53,235
Total since 1880
Peak year
1962
1,795 births
in 2023
20
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-6%
↘
vs previous 5 years