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Una
Pronounced OO-nah /ˈuː.nɑː/High
Meaning: From Latin una, meaning 'one' or 'unity'; also used as an Anglicization of the Irish name Úna, possibly meaning 'lamb'High
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Una derives from the Latin una, the feminine form of unus, meaning 'one.' It is also the Anglicization of the Irish Gaelic name Úna, used in Ireland since at least the early medieval period. The Irish etymology is uncertain — possible connections to uan (lamb) or older Gaelic roots have been proposed. Edmund Spenser immortalized the Latin-inspired form in his 1590 allegorical epic The Faerie Queene.
Una has been used in Ireland, Scotland, and England for centuries. The Irish form Úna was borne by several legendary and historical figures. In the 20th century, Una gained modest use in the English-speaking world as a short, elegant alternative to longer -una names. It has been experiencing a quiet revival as parents seek spare, classical two-syllable names.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Una Merkel (1903–1986)American actress known for her work in classic Hollywood films of the 1930s, including 42nd Street and Destry Rides Again.
- ★Una O'Connor (1880–1959)Irish-born American character actress celebrated for roles in Hollywood films including Bride of Frankenstein and The Invisible Man.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Una mean?
Una means 'one' or 'unity' in Latin. In Irish tradition it may mean 'lamb.' Both meanings suggest wholeness and purity.
How do you pronounce Una?
Una is pronounced OO-nah (/ˈuː.nɑː/), with stress on the first syllable.
Is Una a boy or girl name?
Una is a girl name with a long history of exclusive use for girls in Irish and Latin traditions.
How popular is Una?
Una is a rare but growing choice in the English-speaking world, appealing to parents who love short, classical names.