Wynona
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Wynona
Wynona, which has 6 letters and 3 syllables, is a female name of Native-American origin.
Meaning of Wynona
From the name winona
Wynona is a name derived from a Native American tribe, the Winnebago. It is believed to mean "first-born daughter" or "blessed one".
| Meaning | From the name winona |
| Origin | Native-American |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity (US) | #975 in 1941 Steady |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1930s) |
Background & History of The Name Wynona
Wynona is a feminine given name that has its roots in the English language. The name has various origins and meanings, making it an intriguing choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their daughter. One popular origin of Wynona is Native American, particularly of the Sioux tribe. In Sioux, the name is believed to mean "firstborn daughter" or "eldest daughter." This etymology lends a sense of strength and importance to the name, as the firstborn daughter typically holds a special significance in many cultures.
Another possible origin is from the Welsh language, where Wynona is a variant of the name Wynne or Gwynn, meaning "fair" or "white." This connotation brings a sense of beauty and purity to the name, evoking images of light and innocence. Additionally, the name can be traced back to Old English, derived from the elements "wynn" and "nan," which combined mean "joy" and "child." This interpretation accentuates the joyful and childlike essence of the name.
Wynona gained prominence in the United States during the mid-20th century, with the influence of popular culture contributing to its popularity. Notably, the iconic actress Winona Ryder, whose birth name is actually Winona Laura Horowitz, brought attention to the name with her rise to fame in the 1980s and 1990s. The spelling variation with an "i" instead of a "y" in her name may have contributed to the alternative spelling. Despite the similarities, the names are not etymologically related.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have been named Wynona, further adding to the name's significance. It is worth noting, however, that the name has not achieved widespread popularity, which adds to its uniqueness and distinctiveness. Overall, Wynona is a name with diverse origins and meanings, carrying connotations of strength, beauty, joy, and historical significance.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Wynona over the years.
Check Initials
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Wynona.
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