Nina

Little girl, dreamer — a girl name of Spanish, Russian origin

GenderGirl
MeaningLittle girl, dreamer
PronunciationNEE-nuh

Popularity of Nina in the United States

#324Rank in 2025
946Births in 2025
#115 in 1887Peak Popularity
→ Stable10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Nina

Nina has multiple origins and meanings depending on the culture. In Spanish, it derives from "niña" meaning "little girl." In Russian and other Slavic languages, it is a short form of names ending in "-nina" such as Antonina. In the ancient Assyrian and Babylonian traditions, Nina (or Ninâ) was the name of the goddess of the city of Nineveh. The name also appears in Georgian culture, where Saint Nina (Nino) is credited with bringing Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century. Its brevity and international appeal have made Nina a perennial favourite.

Nina Around the World

Nina is used in 10 languages worldwide, with 3+ international variants.

Languages
RussianBulgarianUkrainianPolishSpanishDutchNorwegianCzechSloveneAtayal
Details

Male FormNino

International Variants
NinaPolish
NiinaFinnish
AnniinaFinnish

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Nina

NiNini

Famous People Named Nina

  • Nina Simone — American singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist
  • Nina Dobrev — Bulgarian-Canadian actress known for The Vampire Diaries
  • Nina Hagen — German punk rock singer and actress

Similar Names to Nina

If you like Nina, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.

Also consider:MinaLinaTina

Sibling Name Ideas for Nina

Looking for names that pair well with Nina? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Nina mean?

Nina is a girl name of Spanish, Russian origin meaning "Little girl, dreamer." Nina has multiple origins and meanings depending on the culture. In Spanish, it derives from "niña" meaning "little girl.

How do you pronounce Nina?

Nina is pronounced NEE-nuh. Common variations include Nena, Nyna, Ninette.

Is Nina a girl name?

Yes, Nina is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Ni, Nini.

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