Choosing a name for your baby is a momentous decision, filled with hope and anticipation. The name Carina offers a unique blend of celestial beauty and classic charm. But what does the name Carina mean, and how popular is it? Let’s delve into the history, meaning, and popularity of this captivating name.
The Meaning of Carina
The name Carina is deeply rooted in astronomy. It is derived from the Latin word "carina," meaning "keel," as in the keel of a ship. This connection arises from the Carina constellation, a prominent constellation in the southern sky. The constellation was once part of the larger Argo Navis constellation, representing the ship of Jason and the Argonauts.
Therefore, the meaning of Carina extends to "an allusion to a southern constellation of the same name, from the Latin carina, a keel, as of a ship." It evokes images of navigation, exploration, and a connection to the vastness of the universe.
Carina Name Popularity
How popular is the name Carina in the United States? While not consistently in the top 100 names, Carina has enjoyed periods of moderate popularity. Data from the Social Security Administration (SSA) shows the name’s usage fluctuating over the years.
Carina Name Popularity Over Time:
The provided data offers a detailed look at the name’s popularity since 1910. Before 1961, Carina did not register in the SSA’s records. Here’s a summary of its trajectory:
- 1910-1960: The name was not recorded in the Social Security Administration data, indicating very low or no usage.
- 1961: Ranked at 2,421 with 5 births, representing 0.0003% of total births.
- 1960s-1980s: A slow but steady increase in popularity, reaching a rank of 738 in 1980 with 173 births (0.0118%).
- 1990s: A significant rise in popularity, peaking in 1995 with a rank of 387 and 647 births (0.0429%).
- 2000s-2023: The name’s popularity has generally declined since the late 1990s but remains in use. In 2023, it ranked 1,360 with 113 births (0.0087%).
Key Observations:
- The name saw its peak popularity in the 1980s and 1990s.
- While not a consistently top-ranked name, Carina maintains a presence, indicating continued usage.
- The District of Columbia (DC) showed minimal usage between 1910-1960.
Names Like Carina
If you’re drawn to the sound and feel of Carina, you might also appreciate these related names:
Variants of Carina:
- Careena: Beloved (Latin)
- Caren: Beloved; pure (Latin)
- Carena: Beloved (Latin)
- Carenna: Beloved (Latin)
- Cariana: Beloved (Latin)
- Carin: Beloved; pure (Latin)
- Carine: Beloved; friend; maiden (Latin)
- Carinna: Beloved; maiden (Latin)
- Carita: Beloved (Latin)
- Carrina: Beloved (Latin)
- Kareena: Beloved (Scandinavian)
- Karena: Beloved; pure (Scandinavian)
- Karina: Love (Scandinavian)
- Karine: Beloved; friend; maiden (Scandinavian)
- Karita: Beloved; dear, beloved (Latin)
- Rina: Beloved; peace; pure; queen; melody; joyful (Latin)
Names That Sound Like Carina:
- Carna: Horn (Latin)
- Corina: Maiden (Greek)
Names Similar to Carina:
- Careen: (Modern)
Choosing Carina
Ultimately, the best name for your child is one that resonates with you. Carina offers a unique blend of celestial connection, classic meaning, and a touch of elegance. Whether you’re drawn to its astronomical roots or simply love the way it sounds, Carina is a beautiful and meaningful choice.
Share Your Thoughts
What do you think of the name Carina? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below!