Diana is a feminine given name of Latin origin, derived from the word "divinus," which means "of divine origin" or "heavenly." It is often associated with the Roman goddess Diana, who was known as the goddess of hunting and wild animals.
The name Diana has been popular throughout history. One of the most notable figures named Diana was the ancient Roman goddess herself. She was worshipped by the Romans for her association with nature, wilderness, and childbirth. In art and literature, she is often depicted as a beautiful woman accompanied by animals such as deer and dogs.
Another famous Diana was Diana Spencer, who later became Lady Diana Frances, better known to the world as Princess Diana of Wales. Born into an aristocratic family in England, she married Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, in 1981. Although their marriage ended in divorce, Princess Diana remained a beloved public figure until her untimely death in a car crash in Paris in 1997.
The name Diana continues to be popular today and is often chosen by parents for its classic sound and association with strength, grace, and elegance. It is also sometimes used as a middle name or given name to honor the memory of Princess Diana.
Statistics for the name Diana in the United States show a varied trend over time. The name was relatively uncommon at the start of the period covered by these statistics, with only 10 births recorded in 1880.
However, the popularity of the name began to rise gradually from the late 19th century onwards. By 1937, there were 1333 births recorded for the name Diana, marking a significant increase compared to previous years. The peak of popularity was reached in 1946, with 7544 births recorded that year.
After this peak, the popularity of the name began to decline gradually. By the year 2000, there were only 3166 births recorded for the name Diana. However, it is important to note that even in recent years, the name Diana remains relatively popular, with over 1300 births recorded each year between 2016 and 2023.
Overall, these statistics demonstrate that while the popularity of the name Diana has varied significantly over time, it has remained a popular choice for parents in the United States. Despite fluctuations in popularity, the name Diana continues to be chosen by parents today.