Dina

Girl Name
Origin:hebrew
Pronunciation:/ˈdiːnə/

Dina: a female name of Hebrew origin meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “dı̂ynâh > Dînā,” meaning “judgment". It derives from the Hebrew word "dı̂ynâh > Dînā".

In Hebrew tradition, Dina holds special significance as a feminine name representing This name derives from the Hebrew “dı̂ynâh > Dînā,” meaning “judgment. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Hebrew culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.

Quick Facts About Dina

Quick facts about Dina
OriginHebrew
GenderGirl name
PopularityUncommon

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Hebrew “dı̂ynâh > Dînā,” meaning “judgment.” Dinah was the daughter of Jacob, one of the Israelites’ patriarchs, and Leah, his first wife. The episode of her abduction and violation by a Canarian prince triggered the subsequent revenge of the brothers Simeon and Levi. This episode is commonly called “The Rape of Dina.”

Etymology & Details

Name Root

dı̂ynâh > Dînā

Other Scripts

Hebrew (דִּינָה) Russian (Дина)

How to Pronounce Dina

Dina is pronounced /ˈdiːnə/(Hebrew)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Din-a
  2. Say it like: "DEENOOH"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Dina enjoys international appeal, used in 14 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, russian, latvian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishrussianlatviancatalanitaliannorwegianturkishswedishdanishfaroesefinnishgreenlandicpolishlatin
Frequently Asked Questions About Dina
What does the name Dina mean?
Dina means "This name derives from the Hebrew “dı̂ynâh > Dînā,” meaning “judgment.” Dinah was the daughter of Jacob, one of the Israelites’ patriarchs, and Leah, his first wife. The episode of her abduction and violation by a Canarian prince triggered the subsequent revenge of the brothers Simeon and Levi. This episode is commonly called “The Rape of Dina.”". The name comes from dı̂ynâh > Dînā. In its original form, the name derives from dı̂ynâh (דִּינָה). This hebrew name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Dina for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “dı̂ynâh > Dînā,” meaning “judgment.” Dinah was the daughter of Jacob, one of the Israelites’ patriarchs, and Leah, his first wife. The episode of her abduction and violation by a Canarian prince triggered the subsequent revenge of the brothers Simeon and Levi. This episode is commonly called “The Rape of Dina.”" as a quality they hope to see in their child. Dina offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Dina?
Dina is a hebrew name. The name traces back to dı̂ynâh > Dînā. The original form dı̂ynâh (דִּינָה) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Dina is written as Hebrew (דִּינָה) Russian (Дина). From its hebrew roots, Dina spread to become common in english, russian, latvian, catalan and other cultures. The hebrew meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “dı̂ynâh > Dînā,” meaning “judgment.” Dinah was the daughter of Jacob, one of the Israelites’ patriarchs, and Leah, his first wife. The episode of her abduction and violation by a Canarian prince triggered the subsequent revenge of the brothers Simeon and Levi. This episode is commonly called “The Rape of Dina.”" reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Dina a boy or girl name?
Dina is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In hebrew tradition, Dina has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “dı̂ynâh > Dînā,” meaning “judgment.” Dinah was the daughter of Jacob, one of the Israelites’ patriarchs, and Leah, his first wife. The episode of her abduction and violation by a Canarian prince triggered the subsequent revenge of the brothers Simeon and Levi. This episode is commonly called “The Rape of Dina.”" carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Dina?
Dina is pronounced "/ˈdiːnə/". This pronunciation follows he language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Hebrew (דִּינָה) Russian (Дина), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Dina is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, russian, latvian, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Dina can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name. The name's root dı̂ynâh > Dînā influences how Dina sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Dina?
Dina is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Dina gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Dina's popularity may vary between hebrew communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “dı̂ynâh > Dînā,” meaning “judgment.” Dinah was the daughter of Jacob, one of the Israelites’ patriarchs, and Leah, his first wife. The episode of her abduction and violation by a Canarian prince triggered the subsequent revenge of the brothers Simeon and Levi. This episode is commonly called “The Rape of Dina.”" likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Dina holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Dina commonly used?
Dina spans multiple cultures, including english, russian, latvian, and 11 other traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Dina found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Dina, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “dı̂ynâh > Dînā,” meaning “judgment.” Dinah was the daughter of Jacob, one of the Israelites’ patriarchs, and Leah, his first wife. The episode of her abduction and violation by a Canarian prince triggered the subsequent revenge of the brothers Simeon and Levi. This episode is commonly called “The Rape of Dina.”" carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Dina into their naming traditions. A child named Dina will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Dina is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Dina?
Dina carries associations with BIBLICAL. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “dı̂ynâh > Dînā,” meaning “judgment.” Dinah was the daughter of Jacob, one of the Israelites’ patriarchs, and Leah, his first wife. The episode of her abduction and violation by a Canarian prince triggered the subsequent revenge of the brothers Simeon and Levi. This episode is commonly called “The Rape of Dina.”" reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In hebrew culture, where Dina originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Dina sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Dina often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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