Regina

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

Regina: 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".

Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Regina, drawn to its Latin heritage and beautiful significance: "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon". 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 Regina

Quick facts about Regina
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 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

Other Scripts

Russian (Регина)

How to Pronounce Regina

Regina is pronounced /rɪˈdʒi.nə/(Latin)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Reg-in-a
  2. Say it like: "REG-IN-A"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Regina enjoys international appeal, used in 16 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, romanian, russian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishromanianrussianspanishitaliannorwegianicelandicswedishdanishfinnishgreenlandicpolishdutchhungarian (magyar)lithuaniangerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Regina
What does the name Regina mean?
Regina 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 Regina 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, Regina's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Regina?
Regina is a latin name. The name traces back to rēx > rēgis > rēgīna. In its native script, Regina is written as Russian (Регина). From its latin roots, Regina spread to become common in english, romanian, russian, spanish and 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.
Is Regina a boy or girl name?
Regina 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, Regina 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 Regina?
Regina is pronounced "/rɪˈdʒi.nə/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Russian (Регина), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Regina is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, romanian, russian, 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 Regina can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Regina?
Regina is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Regina offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Regina'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, Regina holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Regina commonly used?
Regina spans multiple cultures, including english, romanian, russian, and 13 other traditions. Though latin in origin, Regina found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Regina, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. 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 Regina into their naming traditions. A child named Regina 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, Regina 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.

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