Jóna: a female name of Hebrew origin meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yônā,” Arabic “Yonah,” meaning “dove".It derives from the Hebrew word "Yônā > YONAH".
Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Jóna, drawn to its Hebrew heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yônā,” Arabic “Yonah,” meaning “dove". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.
Quick Facts About Jóna
Quick facts about Jóna
Origin
Hebrew
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
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 “Yônā,” Arabic “Yonah,” meaning “dove.” Jonah is a name given in the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh, Old Testament) to a prophet of the northern kingdom of Israel in about the 8th-century BC, the eponymous central character in the Book of Jonah, famous for being swallowed by a fish or a whale, depending on the translation. The biblical story of Jonah is also repeated, with a few notable differences, in the Qur’an.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Yônā > YONAH
How to Pronounce Jóna
Jóna is pronounced /ˈjoʊ.nə/(Hebrew)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Jón-a
Say it like: "JÓN-A"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Jóna is predominantly used in icelandic speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
icelandic
Name Relationships
Jóna is a variant form of Jonah, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.
Jóna means "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yônā,” Arabic “Yonah,” meaning “dove.” Jonah is a name given in the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh, Old Testament) to a prophet of the northern kingdom of Israel in about the 8th-century BC, the eponymous central character in the Book of Jonah, famous for being swallowed by a fish or a whale, depending on the translation. The biblical story of Jonah is also repeated, with a few notable differences, in the Qur’an.". The name comes from Yônā > YONAH. In its original form, the name derives from Yonah (יוֹנָה). This hebrew name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Jóna for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yônā,” Arabic “Yonah,” meaning “dove.” Jonah is a name given in the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh, Old Testament) to a prophet of the northern kingdom of Israel in about the 8th-century BC, the eponymous central character in the Book of Jonah, famous for being swallowed by a fish or a whale, depending on the translation. The biblical story of Jonah is also repeated, with a few notable differences, in the Qur’an." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Jóna's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Jóna?
Jóna is a hebrew name. The name traces back to Yônā > YONAH. The original form Yonah (יוֹנָה) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to icelandic naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The hebrew meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yônā,” Arabic “Yonah,” meaning “dove.” Jonah is a name given in the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh, Old Testament) to a prophet of the northern kingdom of Israel in about the 8th-century BC, the eponymous central character in the Book of Jonah, famous for being swallowed by a fish or a whale, depending on the translation. The biblical story of Jonah is also repeated, with a few notable differences, in the Qur’an." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Jóna developed as a form of Jonah, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Jóna a boy or girl name?
Jóna 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, Jóna has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yônā,” Arabic “Yonah,” meaning “dove.” Jonah is a name given in the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh, Old Testament) to a prophet of the northern kingdom of Israel in about the 8th-century BC, the eponymous central character in the Book of Jonah, famous for being swallowed by a fish or a whale, depending on the translation. The biblical story of Jonah is also repeated, with a few notable differences, in the Qur’an." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Jóna?
Jóna is pronounced "/ˈjoʊ.nə/". This pronunciation follows he language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Jóna is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Jóna can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Yônā > YONAH influences how Jóna sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Jóna?
Jóna is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Jóna offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Jóna'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 “Yônā,” Arabic “Yonah,” meaning “dove.” Jonah is a name given in the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh, Old Testament) to a prophet of the northern kingdom of Israel in about the 8th-century BC, the eponymous central character in the Book of Jonah, famous for being swallowed by a fish or a whale, depending on the translation. The biblical story of Jonah is also repeated, with a few notable differences, in the Qur’an." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Jóna holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Jóna?
Jóna is a form of Jonah. Over time, Jonah developed into several variations, with Jóna emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In hebrew tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yônā,” Arabic “Yonah,” meaning “dove.” Jonah is a name given in the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh, Old Testament) to a prophet of the northern kingdom of Israel in about the 8th-century BC, the eponymous central character in the Book of Jonah, famous for being swallowed by a fish or a whale, depending on the translation. The biblical story of Jonah is also repeated, with a few notable differences, in the Qur’an.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Jóna might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In icelandic, Jóna may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Jóna commonly used?
Jóna is used primarily in icelandic naming traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Jóna found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yônā,” Arabic “Yonah,” meaning “dove.” Jonah is a name given in the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh, Old Testament) to a prophet of the northern kingdom of Israel in about the 8th-century BC, the eponymous central character in the Book of Jonah, famous for being swallowed by a fish or a whale, depending on the translation. The biblical story of Jonah is also repeated, with a few notable differences, in the Qur’an." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Jóna into their naming traditions. A child named Jóna 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, Jóna is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.