Drina is a female given name of Slavic origin, particularly popular among the South Slavic nations. It is derived from the Serbo-Croatian word "drina", which means "rivulet" or "stream". This name is often associated with the Drina River, one of the longest rivers in the Balkans that flows through Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia.
The name Drina has been used for centuries among the South Slavic people, with its popularity peaking in the mid-20th century. It is considered a traditional and cultural name within these communities, often chosen to honor family history or to express a strong connection to one's roots and heritage.
In some cultures, the name Drina may also have symbolic significance. The Drina River itself has played a significant role in the history and folklore of the region, serving as a source of life but also as a dividing line between different communities. As such, the name Drina might be interpreted as symbolizing adaptability, resilience, or the power of nature.
Today, while not as commonly used as it once was, the name Drina remains an important part of South Slavic naming traditions. It is often given to daughters in families with strong ties to their cultural heritage, and may also be chosen for its uniqueness and distinctive sound outside of these communities.
The name Drina appears to have had periods of popularity and decline over the years, with noticeable spikes occurring around every two decades or so. The highest number of births recorded in a single year was 12, which occurred thrice (in 1946, 1970, and 2011). Despite these peaks, there are also several years where no babies named Drina were born at all, indicating that the name's usage has been quite fluctuating. Overall, since 1938, a total of 263 individuals have been named Drina at birth.