Donna is a female given name of Italian origin. It comes from the Italian word "donna," which means "lady" or "woman." The name has been used as a given name since at least the Middle Ages, and it was popularized in English-speaking countries by the Italian Renaissance.
In Italian culture, Donna is often associated with nobility and elegance. It can also be used as a title of respect for women, similar to Madame or Mrs. In literature, one of the most famous examples of the name Donna is in the novel "Donna Tartt" by Elizabeth Wurtzel.
Overall, Donna is a classic and elegant name that carries with it a sense of Italian heritage and sophistication. It's a timeless choice for parents looking for a traditional yet unique name for their daughter.
The name Donna experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years. Initially starting with a modest 17 births in 1880, it peaked at an astonishing 652 births in 1917. This peak was followed by a steady decline, reaching a low of just 99 births in 2023. The total number of births named Donna over this period is 831,431.