Norina is a charming and distinctive Italian given name with a rich history. Derived from the Latin word "nor" meaning "north," Norina is believed to have been first used as a personal name in the Middle Ages. It gained popularity during the Renaissance period, particularly among families of Italian nobility.
In Italian literature, Norina appears as the heroine in Goldoni's comedy "La Locandiera," written in 1753. This character likely contributed to the name's popularity and helped solidify its association with Italy and its culture.
Throughout history, Norina has been quite rare, adding to its uniqueness and appeal. It is not typically associated with any specific saint or religious figure, making it a purely secular choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name.
Today, while still relatively uncommon, Norina can be found in various parts of the world, particularly among families with Italian heritage or those simply drawn to its distinctive sound and historical significance. Despite its limited usage, Norina remains a charming and captivating name that is sure to turn heads and spark curiosity.
The name Norina has been a relatively rare choice for parents in the United States over the past century, with fluctuations in its popularity over time.
In the early to mid-20th century, there were years where more than five girls were named Norina at birth. The highest number of births recorded was ten in 1968 and again in 1971. However, since the 1970s, the number of babies named Norina has consistently fallen below ten per year.
The most recent data available shows that there were six girls named Norina in the United States in both 2009 and 2022. This suggests a continued low level of popularity for the name Norina among American parents today.
In total, over the past century, there have been 279 births recorded for the name Norina in the United States. While this number is not exceptionally high, it does indicate that some families have chosen to give their daughters this unique and distinctive name across generations.