Luna is a charming and unique feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "luna" which means "moon". The name Luna has been used throughout history to represent various aspects associated with the moon, such as its phases, beauty, and mystery.
The name Luna first gained popularity in the Roman Empire during ancient times. In Roman mythology, Luna was the goddess of the moon who drove a chariot through the sky each night. She was often depicted with her twin sons, known as the Lares. The name Luna also appears in the Aeneid, an epic poem written by Virgil, where it is used to describe Dido's sister.
In more recent times, the name Luna has gained widespread popularity due to its use in popular culture and literature. For instance, it is the name of a character in the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, as well as in the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer. Additionally, famous figures such as actresses Sandra Bullock and Penelope Cruz have named their daughters Luna.
Despite its growing popularity, Luna remains a unique and distinctive name that carries with it a sense of elegance and mystery. Its association with the moon adds an air of enchantment and romance to the name, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a memorable and meaningful name for their daughter.
The name Luna has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. Initially, the name was relatively uncommon, with fewer than 25 births per year from 1880 to 1969. However, beginning in the 1970s, there was a gradual increase in the number of babies named Luna each year.
By the late 1980s and early 1990s, the popularity of the name began to rise more dramatically. In 1994, there were 47 births with the name Luna, marking a significant jump from previous years. This trend continued throughout the 1990s, reaching 144 births in the year 2000.
The early 2000s saw an even more pronounced increase in the popularity of the name Luna. In just three years, from 2002 to 2004, the number of babies named Luna tripled, going from 178 births in 2002 to 369 in 2003 and 477 in 2004.
This trend continued throughout the 2000s and into the 2010s. By 2012, there were 1414 births with the name Luna, a dramatic increase from just two decades prior. The popularity of the name has continued to rise in recent years, with over 8957 babies named Luna in 2022 alone.
In total, since 1880, there have been 74374 births with the name Luna in the United States. This statistic highlights not only the growing popularity of the name but also its enduring appeal across generations.