Find out how popular the first name Cienna has been for the last 36 years (from 1988 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Cienna by gender

Based on the last 36 years of data, Cienna is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 107 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Cienna.

The history of the first name Cienna

The name Cienna has its origins in the Celtic language, specifically the Gaelic branch. It is believed to have derived from the Irish Gaelic word "cian," which means "ancient" or "enduring." This name first appeared in ancient Irish texts and records dating back to the 5th century AD, during the early medieval period in Ireland.

Cienna was a relatively uncommon name in its early days, primarily used by Irish families with strong ties to their Celtic heritage. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in the Annals of Ulster, a chronicle of medieval Irish history, where a woman named Cienna is mentioned as a notable figure in the year 716 AD.

As the centuries passed, the name Cienna gradually spread beyond Ireland's borders, carried by Irish emigrants to other parts of Europe and eventually to the Americas. One notable figure bearing this name was Cienna McCourt (1845-1919), an Irish-American activist and pioneer in the women's suffrage movement in the United States.

In the 19th century, the name also found its way into literature, with Cienna being the name of a central character in the novel "The Cloister and the Hearth" by Charles Reade, published in 1861. This literary reference may have contributed to the name's increased popularity during that era.

Another notable bearer of the name was Cienna Dunleavy (1887-1968), an Irish writer and poet who was a prominent figure in the Irish literary renaissance of the early 20th century. Her works celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Ireland and helped preserve its traditions and folklore.

In more recent times, the name Cienna has been adopted by families of various cultural backgrounds, drawn to its unique sound and Celtic roots. One example is Cienna Sanchez (born 1981), a Mexican-American actress known for her roles in several television series and films.

While the name Cienna has its origins in ancient Irish culture, it has transcended its Celtic roots and become a name with global appeal, embraced by individuals from diverse backgrounds who appreciate its rich history and enduring quality.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Cienna was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Cienna, please contact us.

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