Mina
Mina is a girl name of German origin meaning “Love, protection”, pronounced MEE-nah. It ranked #597 in the United States in 2025, given to 491 babies, and peaked at #175 in 1880. Common nicknames: Min, Minnie.
How popular is Mina in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Mina mean, and where does it come from?
Mina is the short form of Wilhelmina and of the German Minna, from minne, "love" — the word behind the medieval Minnesang. It is separately an Arabic and Persian name, a Japanese one, and the Korean transcription of several others, which is why it appears almost everywhere. Bram Stoker gave it to the one character in Dracula who keeps her head. American records hold it since 1880, when it stood at 175th, and it has been in quiet, continuous use ever since.
How is Mina used around the world?
Mina is used in 3 languages worldwide, with 12+ international variants.
Male FormMénás
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Mina?
Famous People Named Mina
- Mina — Italian singer, one of the defining voices of Italian popular music
- Mina Ahadi — Iranian-Austrian human rights campaigner
- Mina Witkojc — Sorbian poet and journalist
Similar Names to Mina
If you like Mina, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Mina
Looking for names that pair well with Mina? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Mina mean?
Mina is a girl name of German origin meaning "Love, protection." Mina is the short form of Wilhelmina and of the German Minna, from minne, "love" — the word behind the medieval Minnesang. It is separately an Arabic and Persian name, a Japanese one, and the Korean transcription of several others, which is why it appears almost everywhere.
How do you pronounce Mina?
Mina is pronounced MEE-nah. Common variations include Minna, Mena, Wilhelmina.
Is Mina a girl name?
Yes, Mina is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Min, Minnie.