What does Polina mean and where does it come from?
Polina is a diminutive form of the name Apollinaria, derived from the Greek name Apollonios. In Russian and Polish cultures, it has come to be associated with meanings like 'small', 'humble', or even 'from the city of Apollo'. It enjoys popularity in Eastern European countries and is often associate
Cultural significance
Polina has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Russia-speaking communities, where it reflects values of small.
Peak popularity
Reached #2447 in 2017 — currently #3213 in the US.
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Related Reading
Russia-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Polina?
Polina works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Polina Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Polina Rose
Floral · soft ending
Polina Mae
Sweet · timeless
Polina Claire
French influence · crisp
Polina Jane
Literary · strong
Polina Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Polina right now?
Falling — down 101 spots — currently #3213 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #3213 | 51 | ▼ down 101 · -4% births |
| 2022 | #3112 | 53 | ▼ down 200 · -9% births |
| 2021 | #2912 | 58 | ▲ up 771 · +45% births |
| 2020 | #3683 | 40 | ▼ down 1018 · -40% births |
| 2015 | #2665 | 67 | ▲ up 726 · +40% births |
| 2010 | #3391 | 48 | ▲ up 710 · +37% births |
| 2005 | #4101 | 35 | ▲ up 1027 · +52% births |
| 2000 | #5128 | 23 | ▲ up 538 · +35% births |
| 1995 | #5666 | 17 | — |
The story of Polina
Polina is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1991. With 1,076 total births recorded, Polina remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5666 in 1995 to #3213 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Polina in 2017:
Polina by decade
Polina peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1990s | 93 | |
| 2000s | 337 | |
| 2010s ★ | 606 | |
| 2020s | 40 | |
💎With 1,076 total births, Polina is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Polina?
What names sound and feel like Polina?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Polina also consider these
How is Polina written in other languages?
Bulgarian), Поліна
Ukrainian
What are the boy versions of Polina?
Common questions about the name Polina
What does the name Polina mean?
Polina means "Small" — a name rooted in Russia 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 Polina?
Polina 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 Polina?
Polina originates from Russia tradition. Russia 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 Polina?
Polina is a three-syllable name pronounced P AO1 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 Polina?
Polina pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Russia heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.