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Donya Unisex

Popularity: #942 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: DON-yah //ˈdɒn.jə//

Origin: Persian; Arabic

Meaning: Persian: 'gift'; Arabic: 'the one who is gifted'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Donya has its roots in the Persian language, derived from the word "dunya," which means "world" or "life." This term has been used in various contexts within Persian literature and culture, often reflecting themes of existence and the earthly realm. The name entered the English lexicon through cultural exchanges and the influence of Persian literature, particularly during the medieval period when Persian poetry and philosophy were highly regarded in the Islamic Golden Age.

As a result, the name was adopted by various cultures influenced by Persian traditions, including Arabic and Turkish, before making its way into English. Historically, the name Donya has been associated with notable figures in Persian literature, where it often symbolizes beauty and the transient nature of life.

The concept of "dunya" has significant philosophical implications in Islamic thought, contrasting with the spiritual realm of the afterlife. This duality has allowed the name to resonate across different cultures and eras, as it embodies both earthly existence and a deeper spiritual significance.

The name has also appeared in various literary works, reflecting the rich tapestry of cultural narratives surrounding it. In addition to its literary significance, Donya has been embraced in various cultures as a name that conveys grace and depth.

Its associations with life and the world have made it a meaningful choice for many families. The name has also seen variations and diminutives in different languages, contributing to its adaptability and enduring presence in various cultural contexts.

Overall, Donya serves as a bridge between linguistic heritage and cultural expression, highlighting the interconnectedness of human experiences across time.

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U.S. Historical Usage

The name Donya was first seen in the United States in 1934.

Donya has ranked as high as #1023 nationally, which occurred in 1970, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Georgia, Florida, and Illinois.

In the past 5 years the name Donya has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Donya (2022)

State Births Share
CA 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19345
19397
19428
19477
19536
19546
19559
19566
195710
195817
195917
196016
196118
196246
196335
196434
196544
196650
196767
196863
196982
1970100
197197
197275
197363
197460
197549
197657
197740
197845
197954
198043
198128
198225
198328
198425
198525
198624
198717
198830
198927
199029
199116
199221
199344
199420
199524
199628
199730
199833
199936
200034
200148
200257
200326
200439
200546
200638
200735
200817
200922
201021
201120
201222
201317
201415
201511
20167
20177
201820
201916
202013
202119
202211
202313
20248