Origin
Hebrew
Syllables
2
Zodiac
Virgo
Trend
Declining
At a glance
Dana is a name often given to girls. Ranked #1077 and is easing off the charts this year. It comes from a Hebrew origin and traditionally means "God is my judge, also meaning 'from Denmark' in Slavic or 'bold' in Irish.". It has 2 syllables.
The Story of Dana
Dana originates from Hebrew Dan, meaning 'judge,' evolving through biblical times as a tribal name in the Old Testament. In Slavic languages, it denotes 'from Denmark,' entering English via immigrants in the 19th century. Irish Gaelic interprets it as 'bold,' reflecting Celtic warrior traditions. This multifaceted etymology has seen peaks in popularity during the 1960s-80s feminist era, symbolizing empowerment and unisex flexibility.
Culturally, Dana signifies justice and wisdom across traditions, often chosen for its simplicity and global resonance. In Jewish heritage, it ties to the tribe of Dan, known for discernment. Scandinavian and Irish uses emphasize adventure and resilience, promoting gender neutrality in modern naming. It fosters a sense of balanced identity in diverse families.
Media portrayals include Dana Scully in 'The X-Files,' embodying intellect and skepticism. Films like 'Dana Carvey's characters' highlight humor, while books feature it in sci-fi like 'Dana' in urban fantasies. TV and literature often cast Dana as the rational, heroic figure navigating mysteries.
Associated traits include analytical thinking, from its judicial roots, and adaptability, mirroring cultural versatility. Bearers exhibit kindness and determination, excelling in problem-solving. This name cultivates a practical yet empathetic personality, ideal for leadership in intellectual or caring professions, with a quiet confidence that draws respect.
Popularity
Currently ranked #1077 on the Baby Billboard Charts. Peak rank: #1077. Changed -101 positions from last year.
Numerology Profile
Life path 7 pursues knowledge and introspection, seeking deeper truths. Analytical and spiritual, they prefer solitude for reflection. This path rewards inner wisdom but challenges trust in others.
Soul urge 4 desires stability and order, building secure foundations. Practical and disciplined, they value hard work. This number supports methodical progress but resists change.
Personality 2 emits gentleness and cooperation, excelling in partnerships. Diplomatic and intuitive, they avoid conflict. This trait aids mediation but may lead to passivity.
Expression 11 inspires with visionary intuition and sensitivity. Idealistic leaders, they channel higher ideals. This master number requires grounding to harness psychic gifts.
Zodiac & Astrology
Virgo
Dana's discerning, practical nature aligns with Virgo's analytical precision and service-oriented heart. The name's judicial meaning echoes the virgin's pursuit of perfection and truth. It supports the sign's methodical approach to helping others.
Strengths
Compatible Signs
Lucky Numbers
Lucky Colors
Best Career Paths
Name Energy & Vibe
Dana flows with steady, earthy energy that grounds intuition and fosters clear judgment. It nurtures a serene yet insightful presence, balancing intellect with empathy. This vibe promotes practical wisdom and harmonious growth.
Color Aura
Cool Jade
Element
Earth
Season
Autumn
Gemstone
Jade
Spirit Animal
Owl
Power Word
Discernment
Energy Type
Earth × Autumn
Personality & Traits
Compassionate
Empathy drives her to help others selflessly. She listens actively, offering thoughtful support. This warmth strengthens relationships deeply.
Adaptable
Easily adjusts to new circumstances with grace. Her flexibility navigates life's changes smoothly. This versatility opens diverse opportunities.
Determined
Steadfast pursuit of goals shows unyielding resolve. She overcomes hurdles methodically. This persistence achieves long-term visions.
Creative
Imaginative ideas blend logic with artistry. She innovates in writing or design uniquely. This sparks original contributions.
Loyal
Unshakeable allegiance to loved ones builds trust. She honors commitments faithfully. This reliability anchors her circle.
Intuitive
Inner senses guide beyond facts, sensing emotions accurately. This foresight prevents mishaps. It enhances decision-making.
Humble
Modest demeanor belies her capabilities, earning genuine respect. She avoids spotlight, focusing on substance. This authenticity attracts true friends.
Famous People Named Dana
Dana Carvey
Comedian and actor, known for SNL's Church Lady.
Dana Delany
Actress in 'China Beach' and 'Desperate Housewives'.
Dana Bash
CNN political correspondent and anchor.
Dana Plato
Actress from 'Diff'rent Strokes'.
Dana Andrews
Classic Hollywood actor in film noir.
Dana Hill
Voice actress for 'DuckTales'.
Dana Ivey
Tony-nominated Broadway actress.
Dana Perino
Fox News host and former White House press secretary.
Dana Reeve
Actress and advocate for spinal cord research.
Dana Gillespie
British singer and actress.
Dana Rosemary Scallon
Eurovision winner and politician.
Dana in Pop Culture
Dana Scully
The X-Files (TV)
Dana Barrett
Ghostbusters film
Dana Freeman
Suburgatory (TV)
Dana Tanamachi
Graphic novels
Dana Mercer
Deus Ex games
Dana Sterling
The West Wing (TV)
Dana Cardillo
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (TV)
Dana
Valley of the Dolls (book/film)
Historical Events
1947
Dana Andrews stars in 'Boomerang,' iconic film noir.
1993
Dana Scully debuts in The X-Files, cultural phenomenon.
1924
Dana Church founded modern dance company.
1969
Dana Plato born, child star era begins.
International Variations
Dana in Different Scripts
دانا
Arabic
达娜
Chinese (Mandarin)
ダナ
Japanese (Katakana)
다나
Korean
דנה
Hebrew
Δάνα
Greek
Дана
Cyrillic
डाना
Hindi (Devanagari)
Nicknames & Short Forms
Middle Name Suggestions
Beautiful middle name pairings with Dana:
Dana Rae
Dana Lee
Dana Grace
Dana Joy
Dana Marie
Dana Lynn
Dana Brooke
Dana Faith
Dana Hope
Dana Skye
Fun Facts & Trivia
Dana was a top 100 name for girls in the 1970s US.
In mythology, Danaë was mother of Perseus, born from a golden shower.
The name appears in the Bible as a son of Jacob.
Slavic Dana means 'gift' in some dialects.
It's unisex, used for boys in Ireland as 'bold.'
Similar Names You Might Love
Danna
God is my judge, or gracious gift
girlDeena
Judged or vindicated, from Din meaning justice.
girlDiana
Divine or heavenly, from the Roman goddess of the hunt and moon.
girlDena
Variant of Dinah, meaning 'judged' or 'vindicated by God' in biblical contexts.
girlTana
Fairy queen or from the river Tana in Scandinavia, symbolizing flowing strength.
girlLana
Light, calm as still waters, or wool
girlDara
From the oak tree, representing strength and wisdom.
girlDani
God is my judge, a diminutive form symbolizing divine fairness and grace.
girlJana
God is gracious
girlRana
Eye-catching beauty, like a gazing gazelle.
girlIsabella
Pledged to God, symbolizing devotion and pure spirit
girlElizabeth
God is my oath or abundance
girlPronunciation
DAY-nuh
Quick Facts
This page is reviewed by the Baby Billboard Charts editorial team. Rankings come from official U.S. Social Security Administration birth records, with descriptions checked for clarity and usefulness. See our Editorial Policy for our methodology and correction process.