What does Bona mean and where does it come from?
The name Bona has Latin origins, where it means 'good.' In Italy and Sweden, it is recognized for its positive connotation. It has been used as a feminine given name since the Middle Ages, often linked to feminine virtues. Notably, Bona of Savoy was the queen consort of Poland in the 15th century, w
Cultural significance
Bona has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Italy-speaking communities, where it reflects values of latin.
Peak popularity
Reached #2207 in 1945 — currently #1633 in the US.
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Related Reading
Italy-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Bona?
Bona works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Bona Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Bona Rose
Floral · soft ending
Bona Claire
French influence · crisp
Bona Jane
Literary · strong
Bona Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Bona right now?
Holding steady — currently #1633 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1633 | 567 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2022 | #1638 | 547 | ▲ up 5 · +6% births |
| 2021 | #1643 | 517 | ▲ up 3778 · +8517% births |
| 1955 | #5421 | 6 | ▼ down 3214 · -62% births |
| 1945 | #2207 | 16 | ▲ up 2336 · +220% births |
| 1935 | #4543 | 5 | ▼ down 1740 · -55% births |
| 1930 | #2803 | 11 | ▲ up 2502 · +120% births |
| 1925 | #5305 | 5 | ▼ down 573 · -17% births |
| 1920 | #4732 | 6 | ▼ down 1341 · -25% births |
| 1915 | #3391 | 8 | — |
The story of Bona
Bona entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. With 186 total births recorded, Bona remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3391 in 1915 to #1633 in 2023. Bona is used for both genders: 95% female and 5% male.
Names that peaked alongside Bona in 1945:
Bona by decade
Bona peaked in the 1940s. See all 1940s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 8 | |
| 1920s | 46 | |
| 1930s | 38 | |
| 1940s ★ | 49 | |
| 1950s | 24 | |
| 1960s | 11 | |
| 1980s | 5 | |
| 2000s | 5 | |
💎Bona has only 186 total recorded births since 1915 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Bona?
What names sound and feel like Bona?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Bona also consider these
Common questions about the name Bona
What does the name Bona mean?
Bona means "Latin" — a name rooted in Italy tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Bona?
Bona is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Bona?
Bona originates from Italy tradition. Italy names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Bona?
Bona is a two-syllable name pronounced B OW1 N AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Bona a common or rare name?
Bona is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.