Dona

“lady” — Associated with nobility and status

Spain origin · Unisex name

♂ 1% boys♀ 99% girls

#754US 2023

1.4kBirths / yr

→Stable

19kAll-time births

📅 Since 188000.04% of births at peak

How to pronounce Dona

DOH·nuh

/ˈdoʊ.nə/ · stress on DOH · 2 syllables

“lady”

Associated with nobility and status · Spain origin

What does Dona mean and where does it come from?

The name Dona is derived from the Spanish and Italian word 'dona' meaning 'lady' or 'mistress'. It is commonly used as a title of respect before a woman's name in various cultures. Its usage can be traced back to the medieval period when it was often associated with nobility and status. In some regi

Cultural significance

Dona has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of lady.

Peak popularity

Reached #302 in 1933 — currently #754 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Dona?

Dona works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Dona Grace

How popular is Dona right now?

Holding steady — currently #754 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1880–2023#754 · Top 0.56%

1955

1960

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#754	1,446	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#759	1,426	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#764	1,396	▲ up 7929 · +10638% births
2010	#8693	13	▲ up 5811 · +117% births
2005	#14504	6	▼ down 3760 · -25% births
2000	#10744	8	▼ down 4100 · -38% births
1995	#6644	13	▼ down 2933 · -54% births
1990	#3711	28	▼ down 772 · -10% births
1985	#2939	31	▼ down 1052 · -46% births
1980	#1887	57	▼ down 263 · -5% births
1975	#1624	60	▼ down 744 · -60% births
1970	#880	151	▼ down 178 · -23% births
1965	#702	197	▼ down 146 · -36% births
1960	#556	310	▼ down 120 · -26% births
1955	#436	418	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Dona

Best Year1930Rank #329

Peak Count1,446

Average Rank#2350

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1900 - 202326 years

The story of Dona

Dona has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 19,016 babies have received this name. Once ranked #391 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #754 in 2023. Dona is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.

Names that peaked alongside Dona in 1933:

Mary Betty Barbara Dorothy Joan

Dona by decade

Dona peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	339
1890s	459
1900s	443
1910s	776
1920s	2,441
1930s	3,463
1940s	3,435
1950s ★	3,943
1960s	2,255
1970s	792
1980s	329
1990s	187
2000s	97
2010s	57

What are good nicknames for Dona?

Common

DonDonieDony

What names sound and feel like Dona?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dona also consider these

American · Fair, Pure

Hebrew · A Hebrew name

How is Dona written in other languages?

Common questions about the name Dona

What does the name Dona mean?

Dona means "lady" — a name rooted in Spain 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 Dona?

Dona is currently ranked #754 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 Dona?

Dona originates from Spain tradition. Spain 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 Dona?

Dona is a two-syllable name pronounced D OW1 N AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Dona more of a girl or boy name?

Dona is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.