What does Jona mean and where does it come from?
The name Jona is a feminine form of Jonah. In Hebrew, it's spelled יוֹנָה. It has connotations of peace and is often associated with the biblical narrative of Jonah and the whale. The name has been popular in various countries, particularly in Israel and among Jewish communities. The dove, which sym
Cultural significance
Jona has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hebrew.
Peak popularity
Reached #1513 in 1964 — currently #4530 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Jona?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Jona?
Jona works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Jona Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Jona Rose
Floral · soft ending
Jona Claire
French influence · crisp
Jona Jane
Literary · strong
Jona Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Jona right now?
Rising fast — up 245 spots — currently #4530 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #4530 | 23 | ▲ up 245 · +10% births |
| 2022 | #4775 | 21 | ▲ up 1396 · +50% births |
| 2021 | #6171 | 14 | ▲ up 142 · -22% births |
| 2020 | #6313 | 18 | ▲ up 980 · +13% births |
| 2015 | #7293 | 16 | ▲ up 3744 · +78% births |
| 2005 | #11037 | 9 | ▼ down 4169 · -40% births |
| 2000 | #6868 | 15 | ▼ down 1608 · -17% births |
| 1995 | #5260 | 18 | ▼ down 701 · -14% births |
| 1990 | #4559 | 21 | ▼ down 803 · -5% births |
| 1985 | #3756 | 22 | ▼ down 1042 · -35% births |
| 1980 | #2714 | 34 | ▲ up 44 · +26% births |
| 1975 | #2758 | 27 | ▼ down 817 · -39% births |
| 1970 | #1941 | 44 | ▼ down 70 · +16% births |
| 1965 | #1871 | 38 | ▲ up 300 · +31% births |
| 1960 | #2171 | 29 | — |
The story of Jona
Jona entered American naming records in 1933 and has been in use for over 91 years. With 2,118 total births recorded, Jona remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #3305 in 1945, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #4530 in 2023. Jona is used for both genders: 80% female and 20% male.
Names that peaked alongside Jona in 1964:
Jona by decade
Jona peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1920s | 17 | |
| 1930s | 17 | |
| 1940s | 61 | |
| 1950s | 175 | |
| 1960s ★ | 428 | |
| 1970s | 339 | |
| 1980s | 311 | |
| 1990s | 231 | |
| 2000s | 247 | |
| 2010s | 249 | |
| 2020s | 43 | |
💎With 2,118 total births, Jona is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Jona?
Famous people named Jona
J(
Jona (historical community leader)
Jona led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
J(
Jona (historical figure)
Jona bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Jona?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Jona also consider these
Common questions about the name Jona
What does the name Jona mean?
Jona means "Hebrew" — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Jona?
Jona is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Jona?
Jona originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew 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 Jona?
Jona is a two-syllable name pronounced JH OW1 N AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Jona a common or rare name?
Jona is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.