The name Carina has its origins in Latin, derived from the word "carina," which means "keel" or "the bottom of a ship." This ties the name to the nautical and maritime worlds of ancient Rome. In astronomy, Carina is also the name of a constellation in the southern celestial hemisphere.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Carina can be found in ancient Roman texts, where it was used as a feminine form of the name Carinus, which was a family name. The name gained popularity during the Roman Empire, particularly among families with connections to the sea or navy.

In the 3rd century AD, there was a Roman empress named Carina who was the wife of Emperor Galerius. Her full name was Galeria Valeria Carina, and she was known for her influence and involvement in political affairs during her husband's reign.

During the Renaissance period, the name Carina resurfaced in Italy. One notable figure was Carina Grimaldi, who lived from 1457 to 1512. She was a member of the Grimaldi family, a prominent noble family in Genoa, and was known for her patronage of the arts and her support for artists and writers of the time.

In the 17th century, Carina Loos (1625-1680) was a Dutch botanist and artist, renowned for her intricate botanical illustrations. Her work was highly regarded and contributed to the advancement of scientific knowledge during the era.

Another notable figure was Carina Ari (1784-1855), a Swedish writer and feminist who advocated for women's rights and education. She published several works, including novels and plays, and was a prominent figure in the Swedish literary and intellectual circles of her time.

In the 19th century, Carina Nellie Pierson (1825-1868) was an American author and poet. She wrote several works of fiction and poetry, and her writings often explored themes of nature, love, and the human condition.