Winona

What does the baby name Winona mean? Learn about what Winona means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Winona - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Winona: W-I-N-O-N-A, is a 6-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Winona: wi-NON-ə; weh NO nah
Meaning of Winona: First born daughter, first born, the oldest daughter.
Origin of Winona: The name 'Winona' has a rich history that dates back centuries. It originates from the Native American Dakota Sioux tribe, specifically the Winnebago tribe. In the Dakota Sioux language, 'Winona' means 'firstborn daughter' or 'eldest daughter'. This beautiful name carries a sense of honor and reverence for the firstborn daughters within the tribe.; American Names; Native American Names; Place Names; Sioux Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Winona: Wenona; Wenonah; Winonah; Wynnona
Popularity of Winona: Over time, the popularity of the name 'Winona' has experienced fluctuations. In the early 20th century, it had a modest level of usage, but it gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. This increase in popularity can be attributed to the famous actress 'Winona' Ryder, known for her roles in films such as 'Beetlejuice' and 'Edward Scissorhands'. Her success and charm brought attention to the name, resulting in a notable spike in its usage during that period.; Winona currently has 59 likes, and is in the top 8% of liked girl's names. The name Deena is slightly more popular than Winona.

Etymology of Winona

Delving into the linguistic roots of the name, we find that 'Winona' is derived from the Dakota Sioux language. The word 'wi' means 'firstborn' or 'eldest', while 'nona' translates to 'daughter'. The combination of these elements gives us the meaning of 'firstborn daughter' or 'eldest daughter'. It is fascinating to see how the etymology of a name can capture the essence of familial relationships and hierarchy within a culture.

Cultural Significance of Winona

The name 'Winona' holds significant cultural value within the Dakota Sioux tribe. It represents the respect and honor bestowed upon the firstborn daughters, highlighting their importance in the family structure. The name serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted traditions and values of the tribe, emphasizing the role of women as leaders and nurturers.