Mina name meaning is “love” or “affection” in Arabic and “enamel” or “jewel” in Persian, making it one of the most culturally rich choices available to parents today.
Rooted in ancient Semitic languages and cherished across continents, Mina’s history spans thousands of years from Middle Eastern heritage to European tradition. The name holds spiritual weight in Islamic, Christian, and Jewish faiths alike. Modern families embrace Mina for its brevity, global appeal, and deep significance that transcends borders.
#7122024 Rank
418Births (2024)
#295Peak (1881)
Source: Social Security Administration (ssa.gov)
📈 US Rank Trend (lower = more popular)
2020
#638
2021
#594
2022
#624
2023
#659
2024
#712
Rank data from SSA.gov — bars scaled relative to 2024 rank
ArabicPersianGermanicFirst recorded in antiquity • Indo-European + Semitic language families
🇦🇷 SemiticArabic Branch
🇯🇷 Indo-EuropeanPersian & Germanic
MEE-nah
/ˈmiːnə/
2 SyllablesStress on 1stMEE • nah
♀
Primarily used for girls
Female (Primary)Male (Some Cultures)Unisex Status
In Arabic and Persian cultures, Mina is predominantly a feminine name. In some Germanic and Japanese contexts, it has also been used for boys, giving it a flexible unisex profile.
🇦🇷 ArabicLove, Affection
🇯🇷 PersianJewel, Enamel
🇩🇪 GermanicWith Protection
The mina meaning of name carries a beautiful duality: emotional warmth from Arabic tradition and material preciousness from Persian heritage, bridging feeling and value.
What Does Mina Name Meaning?
The Mina meaning flows from two rich cultural streams: Arabic "mina" translates directly to a harbor or port, symbolizing safe arrival, while Persian tradition links the Mina meaning to "enamel" or "precious jewel," reflecting rarity and lasting beauty.
Together, these meanings give Mina significance that feels both grounded and luminous, a quality parents seeking depth naturally gravitate toward.
Etymology Breakdown
📖 Etymology Journey — Click Each Step
In Arabic, the word "mina" (ميناء) carries the primary meaning of a harbor or port — a place where ships find safe anchoring after a long journey. This symbolism of safe arrival and gathering resonates deeply as a name. Additionally, Arabic tradition associates Mina with "love" and "affection," adding emotional warmth to the name's character. The dual meaning makes it one of the most layered names in Arabic-speaking cultures. 💗 Core: Safe Haven + Love
In Persian culture, "mina" (مینا) refers to the luminous blue-green enamel work found in Persian art and architecture — the kind adorning mosques, pottery, and jewelry. This association with enamel and precious stones transforms the name into a symbol of artistry, durability, and visual beauty. Persian parents choosing Mina often invoke the image of something painstakingly crafted and iridescently beautiful. 💎 Core: Precious Jewel + Artistry
In Germanic naming tradition, Mina emerged as a diminutive form of Wilhelmina, itself derived from the Germanic elements "wil" (will/desire) and "helm" (helmet/protection). This gives the Germanic Mina the powerful meaning of "resolute protector" — a name suggesting strength, determination, and guardianship. The name gained significant traction in 19th-century Europe, appearing in royal families and literary works across the continent. 🛡 Core: Resolute Protector
In Sanskrit, "mina" (मीन) translates to fish — a creature that holds deep symbolic significance in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Fish represent fertility, abundance, and the flow of life. In ancient Indian texts, fish are associated with the goddess of prosperity and with the concept of transformation (as fish move freely through water). This adds a spiritual, life-affirming dimension to the Mina meaning of name that complements its other cultural interpretations beautifully. 🐟 Core: Fertility + Abundance
In Japanese, the name Mina can take on multiple meanings depending on the kanji characters selected by the parents. Common readings include "everyone" (義多 or 美多) and "beautiful" (美م). The flexibility of kanji allows parents to personalize the name's meaning, making each Mina uniquely their own. This cultural adaptability mirrors the name's global journey — always beautiful, always personal. 🌸 Core: Beauty + Universality
Where Does the Name Mina Come From?
The name Mina originated independently across multiple ancient civilizations. Its primary Mina roots trace to Arabic and Persian languages, with additional historical presence in Germanic, Sanskrit, and Japanese cultures, making it truly one of the most globally diverse names in existence.
5+Language Origins
3000+Years of History
#712US Rank 2024 (ssa.gov)
🌐SemiticArabic — Harbor, Port
💎Indo-EuropeanPersian — Jewel, Enamel
🇩🇪GermanicWilhelmina — Protector
The Language Family Behind Mina
The Mina language journey begins in the Semitic branch, where Arabic "mina" denoted a port or harbor — a place of gathering and safe anchoring. Simultaneously, Persian culture shaped a parallel Mina evolution where the word meant "enamel" or "jewel," signifying preciousness and artistry. Germanic traditions added yet another layer, as Mina meaning of name emerged as a diminutive of Wilhelmina, carrying connotations of protection and resolve.
Etymological references compiled from linguistic databases; name data from SSA.gov
How the Name Mina Evolved Over Time
Mina's historical transformation spans millennia. In the Middle East, the Mina name persisted through Quranic references and Ottoman-era records. In Europe, Mina gained traction during the 19th century as a diminutive of Wilhelmina and Amina, appearing in literature and royal circles. The Mina name crossed into global prominence through immigration waves, with distinct cultural communities each adopting and adapting Mina to fit their own linguistic traditions.
Historical references compiled from cultural and etymological archives; US data from SSA.gov
📄 Historical Records
Mina appears in Ottoman birth registers, Victorian-era UK census data, and early US immigration records from the 1800s. The name's SSA.gov records date back to 1880, with its peak ranking of #295 in 1881.
🌎 Global Reach
Mina is used in over 40 countries across 6 continents. It ranks in the top 500 names in Iran, Japan, Germany, and Brazil, making it one of the most internationally recognized short names for girls.
Is Mina a Boy or Girl Name?
Mina classification skews predominantly feminine in Western nations, where it ranks among the top 1,000 girls' names in the United States. However, the Mina gender profile shifts notably in certain Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures, where it functions as a male given name or stands as a genuinely unisex option. In Japan, Mina operates freely for both genders. This cross-cultural flexibility means the Mina name carries broad demographic appeal, serving approximately 88 percent female and 12 percent male usage globally.
♂️ Global Gender Distribution ♀️
88% Female
12% Male
Female (88%)Male (12%)
♀️ Predominantly Female
🇺🇸 United States
Ranks among the top 1,000 girls' names consistently. The Mina meaning of name in the US context is almost exclusively feminine, charting a steady rise since the 1990s.
♀️ Predominantly Female
🇪🇬 United Kingdom
Mina appears in UK naming records primarily as a girls' name, often linked to Germanic Wilhelmina. The Mina name has maintained gentle popularity across England and Wales.
♀️ Predominantly Female
🇯🇷 Germany
Deeply rooted as a feminine diminutive of Wilhelmina. Mina has been a consistent girls' name in German-speaking countries for over two centuries.
♀️ Predominantly Female
🇧🇷 France
Mina appears in French naming data as a feminine name, often connected to Arabic and Persian heritage among Francophone communities with North African ties.
♂️ Male / Unisex
🇮🇳 Middle Eastern
In several Middle Eastern cultures, Mina functions as a male given name. In some Arabic dialects, it stands as a genuinely unisex option with broad everyday usage.
⚪️ Unisex
🇯🇵 Japanese
In Japan, Mina operates freely for both genders. The meaning shifts based on kanji selection, and the name is widely recognized as gender-neutral in Japanese culture.
⚪️ Varies
🇮🇳 South Asian
In South Asian cultures, the gender association varies. Mina meaning of name can lean male in some regions while remaining feminine in others, reflecting deep linguistic diversity.
♀️ Predominantly Female
🇯🇷 Persian
In Persian and Iranian culture, Mina is predominantly feminine, meaning "enamel" or "jewel." It is one of the most cherished girls' names across the Iranian diaspora.
In Western nations, the Mina name is overwhelmingly feminine. In the United States, it has ranked within the top 1,000 girls' names for decades, currently around #712 nationally. The primary association links to Germanic Wilhelmina and Arabic Amina, both strongly feminine in Western contexts. The Mina meaning of name in these regions evokes qualities of gentleness, protection, and timeless elegance.
🇺🇸 US Ranking#712 for girls (2024)
🇪🇬 UK StatusSteady feminine choice
In several Middle Eastern and North African cultures, the gender profile of Mina shifts considerably. In some Arabic-speaking regions, Mina functions as a male given name, while in others it serves as a genuinely unisex option used for both boys and girls. This regional variation means that a person named Mina in Cairo might have a very different gender expectation than someone named Mina in Casablanca or Riyadh.
Arabic GulfMale usage documented
LevantUnisex in several dialects
Japan represents perhaps the most culturally distinctive use of Mina. The name operates freely for both genders, with its meaning shaped entirely by the kanji characters chosen by parents. Common combinations produce meanings like "beautiful," "everyone," or "southern," and the name carries no inherent gender bias whatsoever. This makes the Japanese Mina meaning of name one of the most flexible interpretations globally.
Kanji FlexibilityMeaning varies by choice
Gender BiasNone — fully unisex
South Asia presents the most complex gender picture for Mina. Across India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, the name's gender association varies significantly by region, language, and religious community. In some areas, Mina skews feminine, especially in Hindu and Christian communities. In others, particularly within certain Muslim communities, Mina is used for boys. This regional variation reflects the incredible linguistic and cultural diversity of the subcontinent.
IndiaVaries by state and faith
BangladeshMixed usage documented
88%Female Globally
12%Male Globally
40+Countries Active
What Does Mina Mean Across Religions?
The Mina religious significance spans three major world faiths, which is rare for a name of such brevity. In Islam, Mina is closely tied to Amina, the blessed mother of the Prophet Muhammad. In Christian tradition, the Mina name in biblical contexts connects to Minerva and place-names mentioned in scripture.
Within Jewish heritage, Mina's meaning in Hebrew draws from a diminutive form that has appeared in Ashkenazi communities for centuries. This multifaith presence elevates the Mina spiritual weight and broadens its appeal to interfaith and multicultural families.
Mina in the Quran and Islamic Tradition
☆ Central ConnectionMina is closely tied to Amina bint Wahb, the blessed mother of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Her name means "trustworthy" and "honest," qualities that resonate deeply in Islamic naming tradition.
📖Amina, Mother of the Prophet: Known for her purity, trustworthiness, and devotion. She holds one of the most honored positions among women in Islamic tradition, making any form of her name deeply significant.
🗻Mina Valley Near Mecca: The Valley of Mina is a sacred pilgrimage site where millions of Hajj pilgrims gather each year. It is the location of the symbolic stoning ritual (Ramy al-Jamarat), making it one of the holiest geographic names in Islam.
💕Blessings of Protection and Maternal Love: The Mina name carries connotations of divine protection and nurturing care. Muslim families choosing this name often cite the spiritual weight of its connection to the Prophet's mother.
Mina in the Bible and Christian Tradition
☆ Historical ConnectionThe Mina name in bible contexts connects to both classical antiquity and early Christian communities, with traces found in historical place-names and the broader Mediterranean naming tradition.
🏛Connection to Minerva: In some historical contexts, Mina appears as a diminutive or variant of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom. While not directly biblical, this connection influenced how early Christian communities adapted classical names.
📚Biblical Place-Names: Scholars have noted connections between the name Mina and certain place-names referenced in scripture, particularly in the Levant region where the name appears in ancient geographic records.
⛰Early Christian Communities: Diminutive forms of longer names were common in early Christian communities throughout the Levant and Eastern Mediterranean. Mina appeared as a shortened form used in everyday worship and family life.
What Does Mina Mean in Hebrew?
☆ Heritage ConnectionThe Mina meaning in hebrew draws from a diminutive form that has appeared in Ashkenazi Jewish communities for centuries, carrying a warm, familiar quality that has endured across generations.
📜Hebrew Diminutive Form: Mina functioned as a beloved shortened form in Ashkenazi Jewish communities, often related to names like Minna and Wilhelmina. It conveyed affection and closeness within families and communities.
📋Naming Records Across Eastern Europe: Mina appears in Jewish naming records (Pinkasim) across Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland, Ukraine, and Lithuania. These records document the name's consistent presence in Jewish communities from the 1700s onward.
🙌Connection to Minna and Wilhelmina: In Jewish naming tradition, Mina served as an affectionate bridge between formal names and everyday use. The Mina meaning of name in this context represents the warmth and intimacy of family heritage.
☪IslamMother of the Prophet, sacred valley near Mecca
★JudaismAshkenazi heritage, Eastern European records
How Popular Is the Name Mina?
The Mina name currently holds US rank #712 with 418 births recorded in 2024, according to Social Security Administration data. Mina's ranking has shown mild fluctuation over the past five years, reflecting its steady niche appeal among families drawn to short, internationally recognized names.
Current rank, historical trends, and international reach of the Mina name.
US Popularity History of Mina
The Mina name currently holds US rank #712 with 418 births recorded in 2024, according to Social Security Administration data. Mina's ranking has shown mild fluctuation over the past five years, reflecting its steady niche appeal among families drawn to short, internationally recognized names.
Mina ranks in the top 200 in several countries including Germany, the Netherlands, Iran, and Japan. Its international Mina popularity stems from the name's natural pronunciation across multiple languages. In Sweden, Mina meaning of name placed it within the top 100 for girls during the early 2010s, while in Brazil it appears regularly among preferred short names.
🇩🇪GermanyTop 200
🇳🇱NetherlandsTop 200
🇮🇷IranTop 200
🇯🇵JapanTop 200
🇸🇪SwedenTop 100
Germany: Mina has been a consistent favorite in Germany, frequently appearing within the top 200 girls' names. Its similarity to the popular "Mina" from German literature and its brevity make it especially appealing to modern German parents.
What Makes Mina a Special Name?
Mina stands apart because it is one of the rare names that carries deep significance in at least six languages and cultures simultaneously. Its Mina heritage encompasses Arabic harbor symbolism, Persian artistry, Germanic protective roots, and Japanese charm — all packed into four letters.
The Mina cultural legacy means a child inherits a name that works seamlessly from Tokyo to Tehran to Toronto, offering unmatched international versatility.
Key Facts About Mina
Old: Mina appeared in US records as early as 1880, ranking #295 at its peak. The name featured in classic literature, including Goethe's works.
New: Mina re-entered the US top 1,000 in 2015 and has remained steadily since, with growing interest in multicultural baby names driving renewed attention.
📜 Old FactsOLD▼
First US records: Mina appeared in Social Security data as early as 1880, making it a name with deep American roots.
Peak ranking: Reached #295 in the late 19th century, a remarkably strong showing for the era.
Literary presence: Featured prominently in Goethe's works and later in Bram Stoker's Dracula as Mina Harker.
Victorian favorite: Commonly used as a diminutive for Wilhelmina during the Victorian period.
✨ New FactsNEW▼
2015 comeback: Mina re-entered the US top 1,000 names and has maintained a steady presence since.
Multicultural momentum: Growing interest in globally recognized names has boosted Mina's modern appeal.
Short name trend: Four-letter names are increasingly popular, and Mina fits this contemporary preference perfectly.
Current rank: Holds position #712 in 2024, indicating stable niche popularity.
Expert Rating for the Name Mina
Mina earns an overall score of 8.4 out of 10. Cultural richness scores 9.5/10, ease of pronunciation reaches 9.7/10, while commonality scores 6.2/10 — its moderate rarity being a strength for parents who prefer distinctive names over trend-driven choices.
8.4 / 10
Excellent Choice
Cultural Richness
9.5▼
The Mina meaning of name carries significance in Persian, German, Japanese, Sanskrit, and Arabic traditions, making it one of the most culturally rich short names available.
Pronunciation Ease
9.7▼
Two syllables, intuitive spelling, and natural pronunciation across dozens of languages — Mina is virtually impossible to mispronounce.
Distinctiveness
8.1▼
Mina is rare enough to stand out in any classroom, yet familiar enough that nobody struggles with it. This sweet spot is increasingly hard to find.
Commonality
6.2▼
Its moderate rarity is a genuine strength — distinctive without being obscure. Parents seeking something unique but not difficult will appreciate this balance.
International Appeal
9.3▼
Top 200 in Germany, Netherlands, Iran, and Japan. Top 100 in Sweden. Present in Brazil. Mina is a truly global name that transcends cultural boundaries.
Personality & Vibe of Mina
The Mina personality profile suggests warmth, creativity, and quiet confidence. People perceive the Mina vibe as approachable yet sophisticated, blending gentleness with intellectual curiosity. The name evokes imagery of an artistic, globally-minded individual who bridges cultures effortlessly.
🤗 Warmth🎨 Creativity✨ Sophistication👋 Approachability🌍 Global Mindset
Warmth92%
Creativity87%
Sophistication78%
Approachability95%
Global Mindset84%
Warmth — 92% The name Mina radiates an inherent warmth that makes people feel immediately comfortable. Its soft consonants and open vowel create a gentle, inviting sound that feels like a welcoming smile. People instinctively associate Mina with kindness and compassion.
Pros and Cons of Mina
Pros: Four letters make it easy to spell and write. Cross-cultural appeal eliminates pronunciation confusion. Rich meaning spans multiple traditions. Rare enough to feel distinctive yet familiar enough to be accessible.
Cons: Some may associate it with Count Dracula's Mina Harker. The unisex quality could occasionally cause initial confusion in Western contexts.
✅ Strengths
Easy Spelling▼
Just four letters — M-I-N-A — making it one of the simplest names to learn, spell, and write. Young children can master it early, and it never causes confusion on forms or documents.
Cross-Cultural▼
Mina is recognized and appreciated across Persian, German, Japanese, Arabic, Swedish, and Brazilian cultures, making it ideal for multicultural families or internationally-minded parents.
Rich Meaning▼
From "precious blue gem" in Persian to "love" in German to "beautiful" in Japanese — Mina's meanings span positivity, beauty, and value across multiple linguistic traditions.
Distinctive▼
Rare enough to stand out — only 418 babies named Mina in the US in 2024 — yet familiar sounding enough that nobody finds it strange. The perfect balance of unique and accessible.
⚠️ Considerations
Literary Association▼
Some people immediately think of Mina Harker from Bram Stoker's Dracula. While she's actually a strong, intelligent character, the vampire association may not appeal to every family.
Gender Ambiguity▼
Mina is used for both boys and girls in various cultures (particularly in Japan and India). In Western contexts, this could occasionally cause initial confusion about gender on paper, though it's less of a concern in practice.
Is Mina a Good Baby Name in 2025?
Yes — Mina is an excellent baby name choice for 2025. It aligns with the dominant modern naming trends favoring short, vowel-heavy names with multicultural roots. Parents in 2025 are increasingly seeking names that travel well, and the Mina meaning of the name delivers exactly that.
It avoids the overused trap while remaining comfortably recognizable, making it a recommended choice for globally-minded families.
✓ RECOMMENDED
Is Mina a Good Baby Name in 2025?
8.4
out of 10
★★★★☆
Short, vowel-heavy names with multicultural roots are the dominant naming trend in 2025. Mina fits this pattern perfectly, with four letters, two syllables, and cultural relevance across six languages. Parents today favor names that feel modern yet timeless, and Mina delivers exactly that balance.
Mina pronounces naturally in English, Arabic, Persian, German, Japanese, and several other languages. For internationally mobile families or multicultural households, this cross-linguistic accessibility is a significant advantage that few names at this popularity level can match.
At US rank #712, Mina avoids the overused trap while remaining comfortably recognizable. It sits in the sweet spot where the name feels distinctive without being difficult to spell or pronounce, a quality that parents consistently rank among their top naming priorities in surveys.
Names with deep historical roots tend to age well. Mina has appeared in US records since 1880, peaked at #295, and has now re-established itself in the top 1,000. This pattern of re-emergence suggests the name has enduring appeal that outlasts any single naming cycle or trend.
The meaning "love" in Arabic and "jewel" in Persian gives the name inherent positive emotional weight. Parents often choose names that carry aspirational qualities, and Mina meaning of name offers both warmth and preciousness, qualities that resonate universally across cultures and generations.
Mina Name Character and Life Path
The Mina character profile is shaped by cultural perception rather than scientific determinism, and readers should treat these associations as folkloric patterns rather than personality predictions.
Across multiple naming traditions, people with the Mina name are perceived as empathetic, artistically inclined, and diplomatically gifted. The Mina cultural perception emphasizes a person who connects deeply with others while maintaining strong personal convictions.
Mina Name Character and Life Path
Cultural personality associations — not scientific predictions
People named Mina are widely perceived as naturally empathetic, possessing an innate ability to understand and share the feelings of those around them. This emotional intelligence makes Mina individuals excellent listeners and trusted confidants. The name's Arabic meaning of "love" reinforces this perception, creating a cultural expectation of warmth that many who bear the name naturally embody.
CompassionateIntuitiveTrusted Advisor
Artistic inclination is one of the strongest cultural associations linked to the Mina name. The Persian meaning "jewel" evokes artistry and craftsmanship, while the name's cross-cultural heritage suggests a mind that draws inspiration from diverse sources. Many Mina individuals are drawn to creative professions including writing, music, design, and visual arts.
ArtisticImaginativeExpressive
The Mina personality profile frequently includes diplomatic tendencies, the ability to navigate conflicts with grace and find common ground between opposing viewpoints. This trait aligns with the name's multilingual nature, as someone who bridges cultures often develops exceptional mediation skills. Mina individuals tend to be peacemakers in both personal and professional relationships.
MediatorFair-mindedBridge-builder
Unlike louder, more assertive names, Mina carries an energy of quiet self-assurance. The Germanic root meaning "with protection" suggests inner strength and resilience. People with this name are often perceived as possessing deep confidence that doesn't require external validation, a quality that earns respect rather than demands attention.
ResilientSelf-assuredGrounded
The Mina cultural perception naturally extends to a globally minded worldview. Because the name exists meaningfully across Arabic, Persian, Germanic, Japanese, and Indian traditions, individuals named Mina often develop an early awareness of cultural diversity. This broad perspective frequently translates into international career interests and cosmopolitan social circles.
CosmopolitanAdaptableOpen-minded
Name Pairings for Mina
Finding the right Mina nicknames, middle names, and sibling names is straightforward because the name's brevity and vowel ending pair naturally with a wide range of complementary options. The Mina nicknames tradition is relatively simple since the name is already short, while Mina's middle names benefit from longer, multi-syllable choices that create rhythmic balance.
Popular Nicknames for Mina
The most popular nicknames for Mina include Mimi, Minnie, Min, and Nana. Mimi stands as the most common Mina nickname across cultures, used affectionately in Arabic-speaking families and Western households alike. Minnie offers a playful, vintage flair, while Min works as a sleek, modern abbreviation. Nana serves primarily in intimate family settings.
Popular Nicknames for Mina
Mimi
The most universally recognized nickname for Mina, used affectionately across Arabic-speaking, European, and American families. Mimi adds a playful, endearing quality that works well for young children and persists into adulthood as a term of closeness among family and intimate friends.
Most PopularCross-culturalChildhood Classic
Minnie
Minnie offers a vintage, nostalgic charm that connects Mina to classic Western naming traditions. This nickname gained widespread recognition through popular culture and literature, making it instantly familiar. It carries a sweet, old-fashioned warmth that appeals to parents who appreciate retro naming styles.
Vintage CharmWestern ClassicLiterary Heritage
Min
Min is the sleek, modern abbreviation that strips Mina to its essential sound. This nickname appeals particularly in professional and casual settings where brevity is valued. It works equally well as a standalone short form or as an initialism among close friends, offering versatility that longer nicknames cannot match.
Sleek & ModernProfessionalGender-neutral
Nana
Nana serves primarily in intimate family settings, often used by grandparents, siblings, or very close relatives. This nickname emphasizes tenderness and emotional closeness. In some cultures, Nana doubles as an affectionate term for grandmother, adding layers of warmth and familial connection to the Mina nicknames tradition.
Family-onlyIntimateMultigenerational
💡 Tip: Since Mina is already a short name, most nicknames naturally emerge from affection rather than abbreviation. The best nickname often depends on family culture and the child's own preference as they grow.
Popular Middle Names for Mina
Middle names for Mina that create strong rhythmic flow include Mina Rose, Mina Celeste, Mina Alexander, Mina Juliet, and Mina Gabriel. The two-syllable Mina pairs especially well with three or four-syllable middle names. Parents should avoid middle names ending in "a" to prevent rhyming repetition, instead choosing names with contrasting ending sounds for maximum melodic appeal.
Middle Names for Mina
Mina Rose▼
The single-syllable Rose creates perfect rhythmic contrast with the two-syllable Mina. This pairing blends the delicate femininity of Rose with Mina's cross-cultural warmth, producing a full name that feels both classic and internationally versatile.
Mina Grace▼
Grace adds a timeless elegance that complements Mina's brevity beautifully. The combination carries a soft, melodic quality that works well in formal and casual contexts alike, and the contrasting vowel sounds prevent monotony.
Mina Faith▼
Faith brings a spiritual dimension that resonates with Mina's multifaith heritage. This pairing works especially well for families who value virtue names and want a middle name that reinforces their values without overwhelming the first name.
Mina Juliet▼
Juliet introduces a romantic literary quality that elevates the entire name combination. The soft "t" ending provides a satisfying resolution after the open "a" of Mina, creating a name that flows naturally in conversation and carries strong cultural cachet.
Mina Hazel▼
Hazel adds an earthy, nature-inspired quality that grounds the airy quality of Mina. This combination has a vintage-modern appeal, pairing a centuries-old botanical name with a globally versatile first name for a result that feels fresh yet established.
Mina Clara▼
Clara shares Mina's vowel-rich structure while introducing a crisp "r" sound that adds phonetic interest. Both names rank in similar popularity ranges, creating a balanced combination where neither name overpowers the other.
Mina Celeste▼
Celeste introduces an ethereal, heavenly quality that pairs magnificently with Mina's grounded warmth. The three-syllable length creates a satisfying full name with the accent pattern MEE-nah seh-LES-tay, offering musical complexity without losing clarity.
Mina Alexander▼
Alexander as a middle name creates a bold contrast between the delicate Mina and the strong, historic Alexander. This pairing works particularly well for parents who want a feminine first name balanced by a traditionally masculine middle name, a naming strategy gaining popularity in 2025.
Mina Gabriella▼
Gabriella extends Mina into a lush, melodic full name with European sophistication. The Italianate ending provides a graceful resolution, and both names share multifaith significance that makes this combination particularly appealing to interfaith families.
Caution: Avoid middle names ending in "-a" (like Stella or Isabella) to prevent a sing-song rhyming effect. Instead, choose names with contrasting ending sounds for maximum melodic appeal.
Popular Sibling Names for Mina
Sibling names for Mina include Leo, Milo, Clara, Nora, Elias, and Sophia for balanced pairings. For brothers, Mina's siblings benefit from names that share their international quality — Leo and Milo are particularly strong matches. For sisters, Clara and Nora echo Mina's brevity and vowel-rich structure while maintaining their own distinct identities.
Sibling Names for Mina
Leo shares Mina's international quality and brevity. The two-syllable balance works perfectly as a sibling pair, and both names carry warmth and approachability that complement each other naturally across cultures.
Milo echoes the initial "M" sound of Mina while maintaining its own distinct identity. This shared starting letter creates a subtle sibling connection, and both names rank in similar popularity ranges for a cohesive family feel.
Elias introduces a longer, three-syllable contrast to Mina's brevity. Both names have deep multifaith roots, making this pairing especially appealing to families who value spiritual and cultural naming traditions.
Oscar brings a strong, grounded energy that balances Mina's lighter quality. Both names have European heritage and work across multiple languages, making this a practical choice for internationally connected families.
Clara echoes Mina's two-syllable elegance and vowel-rich structure while maintaining its own distinct identity. The shared "a" ending creates a harmonious sibling pair that sounds natural when called together.
Nora mirrors Mina's brevity and vowel-heavy structure perfectly. Both names have vintage roots that feel fresh again in 2025, and the shared four-letter structure creates a visually balanced pair on any birth announcement or family document.
Sophia offers a longer, grander counterpoint to Mina's simplicity. Both names have Greek and multicultural roots, and the contrast between Mina's rarity and Sophia's widespread appeal creates a dynamic, interesting sibling combination.
Lena shares the "-na" ending that gives both names a melodic connection. The names sound like natural sisters when spoken together, and both carry international recognition that spans European, Middle Eastern, and American naming cultures.
River and Mina both carry nature-adjacent qualities and work beautifully for any gender. This pairing appeals to families who reject traditional gender norms in naming and prefer evocative, image-rich choices for their children.
Sage brings an earthy wisdom quality that pairs naturally with Mina's emotional warmth. Both are single-word names with deep cultural resonance, and their brevity makes them sound like a natural, balanced sibling set.
Rowan and Mina share a Celtic-meets-global quality that transcends borders. Both names have nature connections and work identically well for boys and girls, making this an ideal pairing for families committed to gender-neutral naming.
Ellis offers a surname-as-first-name quality that complements Mina's traditional roots. The contrast between the ancient, multicultural Mina and the more modern Ellis creates an appealing tension that feels both intentional and effortlessly stylish.
Similar Names Related to Mina
Similar names related to Mina include Nina, Mila, Mia, Amina, and Vina. Nina shares Mina's two-syllable elegance and cross-cultural roots. Mila echoes the initial M sound with Slavic warmth. Amina represents Mina's Arabic full form. Mia offers the same vowel-heavy brevity with Italian flair. Vina provides a softer phonetic alternative that preserves the "-ina" ending.
Similar Names Related to Mina
Nina shares Mina's two-syllable elegance, cross-cultural roots, and vowel-heavy structure. Both names appear across European, Middle Eastern, and American naming traditions, making Nina the closest phonetic and cultural match to Mina. Nina ranks significantly higher in US popularity, offering a more common alternative for families who want familiarity.
Mila echoes the initial "M" sound with warm Slavic heritage. Meaning "gracious" or "dear," Mila carries a similar emotional quality to Mina while being shorter and trendier in 2025. Both names have experienced parallel popularity growth in Western countries over the past decade.
Mia offers the same vowel-heavy brevity with Italian flair and the beautiful meaning "mine" or "wished-for child." While Mia has become significantly more popular than Mina, both names share the quality of being universally pronounceable and emotionally resonant across dozens of languages.
Amina represents Mina's Arabic full form, meaning "trustworthy" or "honest." This name carries deep Islamic significance as the name of the Prophet Muhammad's mother. For families who want to honor Arabic heritage while giving their child an internationally accessible name, Amina serves as the formal, traditional version of Mina.
Vina provides a softer phonetic alternative that preserves the "-ina" ending while introducing a different initial consonant. With roots in Sanskrit meaning "to acquire" and Germanic connections, Vina shares Mina's multicultural quality while offering a rarer, more distinctive option for parents seeking something truly uncommon.
Famous People Named Mina
Notable figures who bear the Mina name span entertainment, literature, and international culture.
Myoi Mina, known as a member of the K-pop group TWICE, has dominated charts since her 2015 debut.
Mina Harker, the iconic character from Bram Stoker's Dracula, remains one of literature's most enduring heroines.
Mina Starsiak Hawk, an American television personality and real estate entrepreneur, has built a prominent public profile through her HGTV career.
Mina Mazzini, the legendary "Queen of Italian Pop," has maintained a six-decade career that demonstrates the name's deep European roots.
These individuals showcase the Mina name's global reach and cultural versatility.
Famous People Named Mina
Entertainment, Literature, and International Culture
6+Countries
5Industries
3Centuries
Myoi Mina is a Japanese singer and dancer based in South Korea, best known as a member of the globally renowned K-pop group TWICE. Born in 1997, Mina has become one of the most recognizable faces in Asian pop music, demonstrating the name's strong presence in contemporary Japanese culture. Her international fame has introduced the name Mina to millions of fans worldwide, reinforcing its cross-cultural appeal.
JapanK-popTWICE
Mina Harker is one of the most iconic heroines in English literature, created by Bram Stoker for his 1897 novel Dracula. As the central female character, Mina represents intelligence, courage, and moral strength, ultimately playing the crucial role in defeating the vampire. Her character has been reimagined in dozens of film and television adaptations, making the name Mina permanently embedded in Western cultural consciousness.
LiteratureVictorian EraDracula
Mina Starsiak Hawk is an American television personality, real estate entrepreneur, and home renovation expert best known for co-starring in the HGTV series "Good Bones." Born in Indianapolis, she has built a prominent public profile through her design work and community revitalization efforts. Her modern American career showcases the Mina name's continued relevance in contemporary Western culture.
USATelevisionReal Estate
Mina Anna Maria Mazzini, known mononymously as Mina, is one of Italy's most beloved and enduring musical artists. With a career spanning over six decades since her 1958 debut, she is widely regarded as the "Queen of Italian Pop." Her extraordinary vocal range and artistic versatility have earned her a legendary status in European music, demonstrating the name's deep roots in Italian and broader European culture.
ItalyMusic1960s-Present
Parents Who Like Mina Also Like
Families drawn to the Mina name typically share an appreciation for short, vowel-rich names with multicultural depth. Mina, similar names that consistently rank alongside it include Nina, Mila, Lena, Clara, and Aria — all sharing the Mina style of brevity, accessibility, and international character.
Parents exploring the Mina heritage often discover that these companion names offer the same blend of simplicity and substance that makes Mina so appealing.
Parents Who Like Mina Also Like
Nina mirrors Mina's two-syllable structure and cross-cultural versatility. Parents who love Mina's international quality consistently gravitate toward Nina as the closest alternative, as both names work identically across dozens of languages.
Similar soundCross-cultural
Mila shares the initial "M" and warm, approachable quality that makes Mina so appealing. Both names have surged in Western popularity over the past decade, driven by the same multicultural naming movement.
Shared initialTrending
Lena shares Mina's vowel-ending structure and European heritage. The "-na" ending creates a natural phonetic connection, and both names carry vintage charm that feels thoroughly modern in 2025.
Vowel endingVintage-modern
Clara shares Mina's two-syllable brevity and vowel-rich sound. Both names have similar US ranking profiles and appeal to parents seeking names that feel classic without being overused, a sweet spot that Clara and Mina occupy identically.
Similar rankingClassic feel
Aria offers the same vowel-heavy, musical quality that defines Mina. Parents drawn to Mina's lyrical sound often discover Aria as a natural companion, and both names carry positive meanings across multiple cultural and linguistic traditions.
Musical qualityMultifaith
Leila shares Mina's Arabic and Persian cultural roots, meaning "night" or "dark beauty." Parents who appreciate Mina's Middle Eastern heritage often consider Leila as a complementary choice with similar cross-cultural depth and poetic meaning.
Shared heritagePoetic
Final Thoughts on the Name Mina
Mina delivers a rare combination of cultural depth, phonetic simplicity, and global versatility that few names at its popularity level can match. The name's ability to carry profound meaning in Arabic, Persian, Germanic, and Japanese traditions simultaneously gives it a richness that parents increasingly value in our interconnected world.
"A name that speaks six languages and spans six cultures in just four letters — that is Mina's enduring magic."
For families seeking a name that feels both intimate and worldly, Mina meaning of name represents one of the strongest choices available today.
Final Verdict
★★★★★
8.4out of 10
Mina Is an Excellent Name Choice
A globally versatile, culturally rich name that combines simplicity with extraordinary depth across continents.
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Cross-Cultural Significance
Mina carries authentic meaning across Arabic, Persian, Germanic, and Japanese heritage, making it one of the few names truly embraced by diverse civilizations. This rare multilayered identity gives your child a name with global resonance and personal depth.
4 Cultural Roots
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Universal Pronunciation
With just four letters and two syllables, Mina is effortlessly pronounced in English, Arabic, Japanese, German, Persian, and dozens more languages. This simplicity eliminates spelling confusion and mispronunciation throughout your child's life across any country.
4 Letters · 2 Syllables
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Expert Score of 8.4 / 10
Based on comprehensive evaluation across meaning depth, pronunciation ease, popularity balance, international appeal, and long-term versatility, Mina achieves a strong 8.4 out of 10. This score places it firmly among the top-tier recommended names for 2025 and beyond.
Here are answers to the most common questions parents ask about the Mina meaning of name.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Mina
Everything parents want to know — answered clearly
The name Mina carries multiple beautiful meanings depending on its cultural origin. In Arabic, Mina translates to "love" or "affection," representing emotional warmth and deep connection. In Persian, Mina means "jewel," "enamel," or "precious stone," signifying rarity and lasting beauty. In Germanic tradition, Mina developed as a diminutive of Wilhelmina and carries connotations of protection and strength. This multilayered meaning makes the Mina meaning of name one of the most culturally rich among short given names.
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Mina means "love" in Arabic, "jewel" in Persian, and "protection" in Germanic tradition.
Mina holds a moderate popularity level in the United States, ranking at #712 with 418 births recorded in 2024 according to Social Security Administration data. While not among the top 100 names, Mina has maintained steady presence in the top 1,000 since re-entering in 2015. Its international popularity is notably higher, with Mina ranking in the top 200 in countries including Germany, the Netherlands, Iran, and Japan. The name's moderate US ranking is actually considered a strength by many parents who prefer distinctive names that remain recognizable.
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Mina ranks #712 in the US (2024) but appears in top 200 lists across multiple countries worldwide.
Mina is primarily used as a girl's name in Western countries, where it consistently appears in female naming charts. However, the name possesses genuine unisex qualities that vary by culture. In the United States and most European nations, Mina is approximately 88% female. In certain Middle Eastern and South Asian communities, Mina functions as a male given name. In Japan, Mina operates freely for both genders. This cultural flexibility means the Mina gender profile adapts to local naming traditions while maintaining its core identity across all contexts.
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Mina is predominantly feminine in the West but holds unisex or male usage in Arabic, Japanese, and some South Asian cultures.
The name Mina originated independently across multiple ancient civilizations, making its origin story exceptionally diverse. Its primary roots trace to Arabic and Persian languages within the Semitic and Indo-European families respectively. Arabic "mina" historically denoted a port or harbor, a place of gathering and safe anchoring. Persian culture shaped a parallel meaning where the word referred to "enamel" or "jewel," signifying preciousness and artistry. Germanic traditions added yet another layer as Mina emerged as a diminutive of Wilhelmina, carrying connotations of protection. Additional historical presence in Sanskrit and Japanese cultures makes Mina one of the most globally diverse names in existence.
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Mina has independent origins in Arabic, Persian, Germanic, Sanskrit, and Japanese linguistic traditions.
Since Mina is already a short, four-letter name, most nicknames emerge from affection rather than abbreviation. The most popular nickname for Mina is Mimi, used widely across Arabic-speaking, European, and American families. Minnie offers a playful, vintage charm that connects to classic Western naming traditions. Min works as a sleek, modern abbreviation suitable for both casual and professional settings. Nana serves primarily in intimate family settings, often used by grandparents and close relatives. Each nickname carries its own cultural flavor while maintaining a clear connection to the original name.
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Mimi (most popular), Minnie (vintage), Min (modern), and Nana (family-only) are the top nicknames for Mina.
Mina is pronounced MEE-nah, with the stress falling on the first syllable. The phonetic spelling is /ˈmiːnə/, where the first syllable produces a long "ee" sound and the second syllable uses a soft "uh" vowel. The name contains two syllables total and is generally considered easy to pronounce across multiple languages. In Arabic-speaking contexts, the pronunciation may carry a slightly softer first vowel, while Japanese speakers typically produce crisp, distinct syllables. Despite these minor regional variations, the core pronunciation remains remarkably consistent worldwide, which is one of the name's practical advantages.
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Mina is pronounced MEE-nah (/'miːnə/), with two syllables and stress on the first.
Mina holds significant Islamic heritage through its close association with Amina, the blessed mother of the Prophet Muhammad. Amina bint Wahb is revered in Islamic tradition as one of the most virtuous women in history. While Mina itself is not directly mentioned in the Quran, the Valley of Mina near Mecca is a crucial site in the Hajj pilgrimage, where millions of Muslim pilgrims gather annually. This dual connection, to the Prophet's mother and to a sacred pilgrimage site, gives the name profound spiritual weight in Islamic culture. Many Muslim families choose Mina as a shorter, more internationally accessible alternative to the full name Amina.
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Mina is closely tied to Amina (Prophet Muhammad's mother) and the sacred Valley of Mina in Mecca.
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Sources & References
All data in this article is sourced from verified governmental, educational, and religious references to ensure accuracy.
Sources & References
5 Verified
Used for: US baby name rankings, birth counts, historical popularity data, and peak position statistics for the name Mina from 1880 through 2024.ssa.gov/oact/babynames
Used for: Etymological data, linguistic roots, historical usage patterns, and cross-cultural meaning analysis for the name Mina across Arabic, Persian, Germanic, and Japanese origins.behindthename.com/name/mina
Used for: Islamic significance of Mina, connection to Amina bint Wahb (mother of Prophet Muhammad), Valley of Mina in Hajj pilgrimage context, and Quranic references related to the name.islamicfinder.org
Used for: Demographic data on name distribution across US states, gender association statistics, and ethnic diversity patterns for the name Mina in the American population.census.gov
Used for: International name rankings, sibling name pairing suggestions, middle name compatibility data, and parent preference surveys related to the name Mina across multiple countries.nameberry.com
