Marina is a name of Latin origin, derived from the word "mare," which means "sea." It has been used throughout history by various cultures, particularly in Mediterranean regions such as Italy and Spain.
The earliest known use of the name Marina can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was given to girls born near coastal areas or with a strong connection to the sea. Over time, the name gained popularity among other European countries due to its melodic sound and association with maritime themes.
In medieval times, Saint Marina became one of the most renowned figures associated with this name. Also known as Margaret of Antioch, she was a Christian martyr from Syria who refused to renounce her faith despite being imprisoned and tortured by a Roman governor. Her courageous deeds made her a symbol of strength and resilience in early Christianity.
Throughout the centuries, numerous notable individuals have carried the name Marina, including artists like Mexican painter Frida Kahlo (born Magdalena Carmen Frida Kahlo y Calderón) who often signed her artwork simply as "Frida Marina." Other famous Marinas include Italian opera singer Maria Callas (full name: Sophia Cecilia Anna Maria Kalogero-poulou), commonly referred to as La Divina, and Russian ballerina Marina Semyonova.
Today, Marina remains a popular choice for parents looking for a timeless yet distinctive name for their daughters. Its meaning – "of the sea" or "related to the ocean" – continues to evoke images of vast waterscapes, freedom, and adventure, adding to its enduring appeal.
Statistics on the Name Marina in the United States:
* The name Marina was given to babies a total of 51 times between 1983 and 1993.
* The years with the highest number of births were:
+ 1985 and 1986, each year having 7 births
+ 1992 had 9 births
* The lowest numbers of births for the name Marina occurred in the following years:
+ 1984 and 1990, with just 5 births each year