Macrina

Girl Name
Origin:latin
Pronunciation:/məˈkriː.nə/

Macrina: a female name of Latin origin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed". It derives from the Latin word "măcĕr > Macra".

Macrina is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed". Its Latin origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Macrina

Quick facts about Macrina
OriginLatin
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately 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 Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

măcĕr > Macra

How to Pronounce Macrina

Macrina is pronounced /məˈkriː.nə/(Latin)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Macrin-a
  2. Say it like: "MACRIN-A"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

This name has found popularity across spanish, italian, and portuguese speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.

spanishitalianportuguese
Frequently Asked Questions About Macrina
What does the name Macrina mean?
Macrina means "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania.". The name comes from măcĕr > Macra. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Macrina for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Macrina's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like RELIGION (SAINTS) / HISTORY (KINGS / SOVEREIGN), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Macrina?
Macrina is a latin name. The name traces back to măcĕr > Macra. From its latin roots, Macrina spread to become common in spanish, italian, portuguese. The latin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Macrina a boy or girl name?
Macrina is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In latin tradition, Macrina has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Macrina?
Macrina is pronounced "/məˈkriː.nə/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Macrina is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in spanish, italian, portuguese, 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 latin names, listening to a native speaker say Macrina can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Macrina?
Macrina is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Macrina offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Macrina's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Macrina holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Macrina commonly used?
Macrina is common in spanish and italian and portuguese naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Macrina found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Macrina, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Macrina into their naming traditions. A child named Macrina 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, Macrina is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Macrina?
Macrina carries associations with RELIGION (SAINTS) / HISTORY (KINGS / SOVEREIGN). 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 Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In latin culture, where Macrina 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 Macrina sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Macrina often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In spanish 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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