Tonna: a female name of Old Norse origin meaning "This name is a short form of Antona, Antonia, Antoinette and the variant form of Tona and Torny".It derives from the Old Norse word (Þórný�) (ANTōNIUS).
Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Tonna, drawn to its Old Norse heritage and beautiful significance: "This name is a short form of Antona, Antonia, Antoinette and the variant form of Tona and Torny". 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 Tonna
Quick facts about Tonna
Origin
Old Norse, Etruscan
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 is a short form of Antona, Antonia, Antoinette and the variant form of Tona and Torny. The name is of Old Norse and Etruscan origin and comes from the following roots: (ÞÓRNÝ) and (ANTŌNIUS).
Etymology & Details
Name Root
(Þórný�) (ANTōNIUS)
How to Pronounce Tonna
Tonna is pronounced /ˈtɒ.nə/(Italian)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ton-na
Say it like: "TON-NA"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Tonna enjoys international appeal, used in 7 different linguistic and cultural contexts including old norse, swedish, danish, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
old norseswedishdanishfrisiandutchold danishold swedish
Name Relationships
Tonna is a variant form of Tona, Torny, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tonna
What does the name Tonna mean?
Tonna means "This name is a short form of Antona, Antonia, Antoinette and the variant form of Tona and Torny. The name is of Old Norse and Etruscan origin and comes from the following roots: (ÞÓRNÝ) and (ANTŌNIUS).". The name comes from (Þórný�) (ANTōNIUS). This old norse name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Tonna for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name is a short form of Antona, Antonia, Antoinette and the variant form of Tona and Torny. The name is of Old Norse and Etruscan origin and comes from the following roots: (ÞÓRNÝ) and (ANTŌNIUS)." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Tonna's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like NORSE MYTHOLOGY, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Tonna?
Tonna has old norse and etruscan origins. The name traces back to (Þórný�) (ANTōNIUS). From its old norse roots, Tonna spread to become common in old norse, swedish, danish, frisian and other cultures. The old norse meaning "This name is a short form of Antona, Antonia, Antoinette and the variant form of Tona and Torny. The name is of Old Norse and Etruscan origin and comes from the following roots: (ÞÓRNÝ) and (ANTŌNIUS)." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Tonna developed as a form of Tona, Torny, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Tonna a boy or girl name?
Tonna is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In old norse tradition, Tonna has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name is a short form of Antona, Antonia, Antoinette and the variant form of Tona and Torny. The name is of Old Norse and Etruscan origin and comes from the following roots: (ÞÓRNÝ) and (ANTŌNIUS)." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Tonna?
Tonna is pronounced "/ˈtɒ.nə/". This pronunciation follows it language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Tonna is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in old norse, swedish, danish, 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 old norse names, listening to a native speaker say Tonna can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
What are common nicknames for Tonna?
Tonna is commonly used as a nickname for Antona, Antonia, Antoinette. Being a shortened version of Antona, Antonia, Antoinette, Tonna offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Antona, Antonia, Antoinette go by Tonna throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In old norse cultures, using Tonna as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among girls and women, though some now use Tonna as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Tonna on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Tonna?
Tonna is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Tonna offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Tonna's popularity may vary between old norse communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name is a short form of Antona, Antonia, Antoinette and the variant form of Tona and Torny. The name is of Old Norse and Etruscan origin and comes from the following roots: (ÞÓRNÝ) and (ANTŌNIUS)." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Tonna holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Tonna?
Tonna is a form of Tona, Torny. Over time, Tona, Torny developed into several variations, with Tonna emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In old norse tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name is a short form of Antona, Antonia, Antoinette and the variant form of Tona and Torny. The name is of Old Norse and Etruscan origin and comes from the following roots: (ÞÓRNÝ) and (ANTŌNIUS).", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Tonna might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In old norse and swedish, Tonna may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Tonna commonly used?
Tonna spans multiple cultures, including old norse, swedish, danish, and 4 other traditions. The name originated in old norse culture and spread as people migrated and cultures exchanged ideas. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Tonna, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name is a short form of Antona, Antonia, Antoinette and the variant form of Tona and Torny. The name is of Old Norse and Etruscan origin and comes from the following roots: (ÞÓRNÝ) and (ANTŌNIUS)." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Tonna into their naming traditions. A child named Tonna 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, Tonna is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Tonna?
Tonna carries associations with NORSE MYTHOLOGY. 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 is a short form of Antona, Antonia, Antoinette and the variant form of Tona and Torny. The name is of Old Norse and Etruscan origin and comes from the following roots: (ÞÓRNÝ) and (ANTŌNIUS)." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In old norse culture, where Tonna 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 Tonna sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Tonna often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In old norse 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.