Angelina is a feminine given name of Italian origin. It is derived from the Italian word 'angelo,' which means 'angel.' Therefore, the name Angelina literally translates to 'little angel.'
The use of the name Angelina can be traced back to the Middle Ages in Italy. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the name began to gain popularity outside of Italy. In the United States, for instance, its usage became more common during the late Victorian era.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Angelina. One of the most famous is Italian actress and singer Angelina Selbach, who was active in the early 20th century. Additionally, the name gained further recognition through characters in literature and film, such as Angelina Jolie's titular role in the 1995 film 'Foxfire.'
Despite its Italian origins, Angelina has been embraced by various cultures worldwide. Today, it remains a popular choice for parents seeking a name that conveys innocence, grace, and divine beauty.
These statistics show a significant increase in the number of births with the name Angelina over time. The earliest years, from 1880 to around 1960, saw relatively few births with this name, with numbers ranging from single digits to just over three hundred. However, starting in the late 1960s and throughout the 1970s, there was a notable rise, reaching almost nine hundred births in 1979.
The trend continued into the 1980s and 1990s, with numbers steadily increasing to over one thousand by 1999. The peak occurred in the year 2000, with an unprecedented 2140 births named Angelina, indicating a significant surge in popularity during this time.
However, since then, there has been a steady decline in the number of newborn girls being named Angelina. By 2023, the total had dropped to just 982 births, suggesting that this name may no longer be as popular or fashionable as it once was.