Regena: a female name of Latin origin meaning "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon".It derives from the Latin word "rēx > rēgis > rēgīna".
The name Regena carries a rich history rooted in Latin culture. Derived from "rēx > rēgis > rēgīna", this feminine name embodies the essence of This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Latin-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Regena
Quick facts about Regena
Origin
Latin
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 has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
rēx > rēgis > rēgīna
How to Pronounce Regena
Regena is pronounced /rɛˈdʒiː.nə/(Latin)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Reg-en-a
Say it like: "REG-EN-A"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Regena is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
english
Name Relationships
Regena is a variant form of Regina, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.
Regena means "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state.". The name comes from rēx > rēgis > rēgīna. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Regena for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Regena's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Regena?
Regena is a latin name. The name traces back to rēx > rēgis > rēgīna. The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The latin meaning "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Regena developed as a form of Regina, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Regena a boy or girl name?
Regena 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, Regena has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Regena?
Regena is pronounced "/rɛˈdʒiː.nə/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Regena is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Regena can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Regena?
Regena is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Regena offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Regena's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Regena holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Regena?
Regena is a form of Regina. Over time, Regina developed into several variations, with Regena emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In latin tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Regena might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english, Regena may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Regena commonly used?
Regena is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Regena found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Regena into their naming traditions. A child named Regena 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, Regena 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.