The name Evelina has its origins in the ancient Latin language. It is a feminine form of the male name Evelinus, which is derived from the Hebrew name Avelin, meaning "little eve" or "son of Eve." The name is connected to the biblical figure Eve, the first woman according to the Book of Genesis.

The earliest recorded use of the name Evelina dates back to the 5th century AD, when it was used in various regions of the Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages, the name gained popularity across Europe, particularly in Italy, France, and Spain.

One of the earliest known historical figures with the name Evelina was Saint Evelina, a French nun who lived in the 7th century. She founded the Monastery of Notre-Dame de Muninges in Alsace and is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church.

In the 18th century, the name Evelina gained literary significance with the publication of the novel "Evelina" by Frances Burney in 1778. The novel, which follows the life of a young woman named Evelina, was a major success and helped to popularize the name further.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Evelina. Evelina Haverfield (1867-1920) was a British suffragette and activist who campaigned for women's rights and played a pivotal role in the women's suffrage movement in the United Kingdom.

Evelina Fernández (1861-1950) was a Spanish painter and one of the first women to be admitted to the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando in Madrid. Her works are celebrated for their realistic portrayal of everyday life and scenes from Spanish society.

Evelina Dolara (1826-1899) was an Italian operatic soprano who enjoyed a successful career in the mid-19th century. She performed in many of the major opera houses across Europe and was particularly renowned for her interpretations of roles in operas by Verdi and Bellini.

Evelina Pica (1850-1931) was an Italian mathematician and educator. She made significant contributions to the field of projective geometry and was one of the first women to hold a university teaching position in Italy.

Evelina de Rothschild (1866-1954) was a member of the prestigious Rothschild banking family and a prominent philanthropist. She was involved in various charitable organizations and played a crucial role in supporting Jewish refugees during World War II.