What does Molina mean and where does it come from?
Molina originates from Spain and is derived from the Spanish word for mill ('molino'). It is also a surname and has been used as a first name in some regions, particularly in Latin America. The name embodies a connection to agricultural practices and is associated with individuals from rural backgro
Cultural significance
Molina has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of spanish.
Peak popularity
Reached #3264 in 1971 — currently #14602 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Molina?
Molina works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Molina Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Molina Rose
Floral · soft ending
Molina Mae
Sweet · timeless
Molina Claire
French influence · crisp
Molina Jane
Literary · strong
Molina Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Molina right now?
Rising fast — up 100 spots — currently #14602 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #14602 | 6 | ▲ up 100 |
| 2021 | #14702 | 6 | ▼ down 3469 · -25% births |
| 2020 | #11233 | 8 | ▲ up 3737 · +33% births |
| 2005 | #14970 | 6 | ▼ down 1319 |
| 2000 | #13651 | 6 | ▼ down 4582 · -33% births |
| 1995 | #9069 | 9 | ▲ up 4619 · +80% births |
| 1990 | #13688 | 5 | ▼ down 3744 |
| 1975 | #9944 | 5 | — |
The story of Molina
Molina is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1971. With 210 total births recorded, Molina remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #9944 in 1975, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #14602 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Molina in 1971:
Molina by decade
Molina peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 51 | |
| 1980s | 23 | |
| 1990s ★ | 54 | |
| 2000s | 36 | |
| 2010s | 38 | |
| 2020s | 8 | |
💎Molina has only 210 total recorded births since 1971 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Molina?
What names sound and feel like Molina?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Molina also consider these
Common questions about the name Molina
What does the name Molina mean?
Molina means "Spanish" — 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 Molina?
Molina is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl 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 Molina?
Molina 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 Molina?
Molina is a three-syllable name pronounced M AH0 L IY1 N AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Molina?
Molina pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Spain heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.