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Regina

♀ Girl

Pronounced reh-JEE-nah /rɪˈdʒiː.nə/High

Meaning: Directly from Latin regina meaning queen; the feminine form of rex (king)High

In 30 seconds: Regina is the Latin word for queen — nothing more, nothing less — a regal, ancient name that has served as a title and a given name across two millennia of European history.
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Origin HighLatin
MeaningDirectly from Latin regina meaning queen; the feminine form of rex (king)
U.S. rank (2025)#395 ↘ Falling
2025 U.S. births786 girls (0.04% of U.S. girls)
Peak year1962
Total births (all-time)≈ 184,262

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 196218802025

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Regina is the direct Latin word for queen, the feminine of rex (king). It has been used as a given name since the early Christian era, borne by Saint Regina (Reine) of Autun, martyred in the 3rd century.

The name was used in the English-speaking world in the Victorian era and peaked in mid-20th-century America. It remains in use and carries an undeniable regality.

Did you know? Regina is used as an official title for the reigning British monarch when female: Elizabeth II's official designation was Regina on all legal documents, coins, and royal warrants.
Overall data confidence 98%
Behind the Name — Regina — etymology and historyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

ReineRenaReina

Nicknames

ReggieGina

Famous Bearers

  • ★Regina George (fictional)
    Iconic character in the 2004 film Mean Girls, portrayed by Rachel McAdams.
  • ★Regina Spektor (1980–present)
    Russian-American singer-songwriter known for her eclectic style and poetic lyrics.

If you like Regina…

Victoria— shares the Latin regal heritage and the same queenly gravitas
Diana— classical Latin name with royal and mythological power
Reina— Spanish word for queen, sharing the direct regal meaning
Gloria— shares the Latin word-name tradition and mid-century American use

Frequently Asked

What does the name Regina mean?

Regina means queen directly from Latin; it is the feminine form of rex (king).

How do you pronounce Regina?

It is said reh-JEE-nah /rɪˈdʒiː.nə/ — three syllables, stress on the second.

Is Regina still used as a royal title?

Yes, Regina is the official Latin title for a reigning queen in the British and other monarchies.

What are nicknames for Regina?

Common nicknames include Reggie and Gina.