Daiva is a rare and unique female given name of Lithuanian origin. The name has several possible meanings depending on the context in which it is used.
In Lithuanian folklore, Daiva refers to the goddess of fate or destiny. She was believed to control the lives of individuals and determine their fortunes. In this sense, the name Daiva can be seen as a powerful and significant choice for a girl's name.
The name Daiva may also have pagan origins related to the ancient Baltic religion practiced in Lithuania before Christianity arrived. In this context, Daiva was one of several deities worshipped by the early Lithuanians. She was often associated with fertility, abundance, and good fortune.
The name Daiva has been used in Lithuania for centuries but is still relatively uncommon today. It is typically given to girls born into families that value Lithuanian culture and tradition. Some famous individuals named Daiva include Daiva Kubilienė, a renowned Lithuanian actress, and Daiva Gaščiūnaitė, a prominent journalist and television personality.
In summary, the name Daiva has deep roots in Lithuanian history and culture, with possible meanings related to fate, destiny, fertility, abundance, and good fortune. It is a unique and significant choice for parents looking for a distinctive name with rich cultural heritage.
The name Daiva has been a relatively rare choice among parents in the United States over the past few decades, with a total of 53 babies given this name since 1950. The most popular years for the name were recently, with 6 births each in both 2013 and 2014. Interestingly, there was also a peak in the use of the name in the late 1950s to early 1960s, with around 5-8 births per year during that period. Despite these fluctuations, Daiva remains an uncommon name overall, with no more than 7 births recorded in any single year since records began.