Linnea is a Scandinavian female given name of Swedish origin. It is derived from the Latin word "linnaea," which refers to the twinflower plant (Linnaea borealis). This plant is native to Northern Europe and is known for its small white or pink flowers that grow in pairs along its stem.
The name Linnea has a long history in Sweden, where it was popular among the nobility during the 17th century. It gained further popularity after Carl Linnaeus, the renowned Swedish botanist and zoologist, named the twinflower plant "Linnaea borealis" in honor of his close friend and patron, Count Linnaeus.
In Scandinavian cultures, Linnea is often associated with nature and its beauty. The name's connection to the twinflower plant has made it particularly popular among those who appreciate the natural world. Today, Linnea continues to be a beloved name in Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, though it is less common elsewhere.
Overall, Linnea is a unique and charming name with a rich history rooted in Swedish culture and botany. Its association with the twinflower plant makes it a beautiful choice for parents looking for a nature-inspired name for their daughter.
The name Linnea experienced notable fluctuations in popularity over time. In the early years (1894-1927), there were fewer than 25 births annually, with some years having only single-digit numbers of births. However, beginning in 1930, we see a steady increase in annual births, reaching triple digits by 1940 and peaking at over 200 births per year between 1981 and 2006.
The name's popularity then seemed to stabilize around the mid-150s to low-170s range from 2007 until recently. Since 2018, there has been a slight decrease, with annual births dropping back down to the high-120s and low-130s.
Overall, Linnea's popularity has grown significantly since its initial appearance in the late 19th century, though it has shown some recent signs of decline.