Ravenna Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: ruh-VEN-uh /rəˈvɛnə/
Origin: Italian; Latin
Meaning: Italian: 'raven'; Latin: 'raven'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Ravenna has its roots in the Latin word "ravenna," which is believed to derive from the word "raven," a bird often associated with mystery and omens in various cultures. The etymological journey of the name can be traced back to the ancient city of Ravenna in Italy, which was established as a Roman colony in the 2nd century BCE.
The city became significant during the late Roman Empire and served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire from 402 CE until its fall in 476 CE. The name thus carries historical weight, linked to a city that was a center of art and culture during the early Christian period, known for its stunning mosaics and as a seat of power for various rulers, including the Ostrogoths and Byzantines.
Throughout history, Ravenna has been associated with notable figures and events. The city was home to several important early Christian saints and has been recognized for its contributions to the development of Christian art and architecture.
The mosaics of Ravenna, particularly in the Basilica of San Vitale, are considered masterpieces of early Christian art and have influenced artistic traditions in Europe. The name Ravenna, therefore, evokes a sense of historical and cultural significance, reflecting the rich heritage of the city.
In addition to its historical roots, the name Ravenna carries symbolic associations with the raven itself, which has been a powerful symbol in various mythologies, often representing wisdom, transformation, and the connection between the earthly and the spiritual realms. This connection enhances the name's resonance in literature and folklore, where the raven frequently appears as a figure of mystery and insight.
The enduring nature of the name Ravenna can be attributed to its deep historical significance and the evocative imagery associated with both the city and the bird.
Famous people named Ravenna
Fictional characters named Ravenna
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Ravenna was first seen in the United States in 1932. Ravenna has ranked as high as #1312 nationally, which occurred in 2020, and has been most popular in Washington, and California. In the past 5 years the name Ravenna has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Ravenna (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 6 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1932 | 7 |
| 1933 | 11 |
| 1934 | 6 |
| 1935 | 8 |
| 1938 | 6 |
| 1957 | 5 |
| 1961 | 5 |
| 1977 | 5 |
| 1979 | 5 |
| 1991 | 5 |
| 1994 | 5 |
| 1997 | 5 |
| 1999 | 6 |
| 2002 | 6 |
| 2003 | 6 |
| 2005 | 9 |
| 2006 | 8 |
| 2007 | 10 |
| 2008 | 5 |
| 2009 | 10 |
| 2010 | 14 |
| 2011 | 11 |
| 2012 | 10 |
| 2013 | 26 |
| 2014 | 21 |
| 2015 | 26 |
| 2016 | 21 |
| 2017 | 38 |
| 2018 | 30 |
| 2019 | 41 |
| 2020 | 44 |
| 2021 | 22 |
| 2022 | 34 |
| 2023 | 24 |
| 2024 | 36 |