The name Mona is a simple yet elegant choice for a baby girl, carrying with it a sense of history and charm. But how popular is the name Mona? Let’s delve into the details.
Mona Name Popularity: A Historical Perspective
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides valuable data on name popularity in the United States, and the trends for Mona offer an interesting glimpse into its usage over the decades.
From the early 20th century through the mid-20th century, Mona enjoyed relatively consistent popularity. The data shows a steady rise in rank and number of births throughout the early decades, reaching a peak in the 1950s and 1960s. For example, in 1954, the name ranked 232nd, with 1,183 births, representing 0.0647% of all female births that year.
However, the late 1970s marked the beginning of a decline. The name gradually decreased in popularity, falling to lower ranks and fewer births each year. By the 1980s and 1990s, Mona was significantly less common. While there have been slight upticks in certain years, the overall trend suggests a more infrequent usage in recent times. In 2023, the name ranked 1,996 with 51 births.
Here’s a snapshot of the data across several decades:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 461 | 42 | 0.0119% |
| 1930 | 262 | 522 | 0.05% |
| 1950 | 230 | 1,068 | 0.0663% |
| 1970 | 371 | 608 | 0.0382% |
| 1990 | 1,215 | 89 | 0.0054% |
| 2010 | 2,022 | 37 | 0.0026% |
| 2023 | 1,996 | 51 | 0.0039% |
This data suggests that Mona was a considerably more popular choice in the past, especially during the mid-20th century, than it is today. However, the name’s enduring quality might appeal to parents seeking a vintage or classic name for their daughter.
The Meaning and Origin of Mona
While the article does not contain this information, the name Mona has multiple possible origins and meanings, adding to its charm:
- Irish: Often considered a diminutive of names like Moninna, meaning "noble" or "aristocratic."
- Italian: Possibly derived from "Madonna," meaning "my lady."
- Persian: In Persian, Mona means "wish" or "desire."
- English: Can be used as a standalone name, sometimes associated with the Isle of Man, known as Mona in Latin.
The diverse origins and meanings contribute to the name’s international appeal and timelessness.
Names Like Mona: Exploring Alternatives
If you’re drawn to the sound and feel of Mona, but want to explore similar options, consider these alternatives:
Variants of Mona:
- Moina: (Irish) Noble, aristocratic; beloved
- Monah: (Irish) Noble, aristocratic
- Monalisa/Monalissa: (Irish) Noble, aristocratic
- Monna: (Irish) Noble, aristocratic
- Moyna: (Irish) Noble, aristocratic; beloved
Names That Sound Like Mona:
- Mena: (German) Love
- Mina: (German) Love
- Monay/Mone: These names share a similar phonetic sound.
- Mouna/Muna: (Arabic) Wish, desire
Similar Names:
- Ramona: (Spanish) Protecting hands
These alternatives offer a range of sounds and origins, allowing you to find a name that resonates with your personal preferences while maintaining a connection to the classic appeal of Mona.
