Find out how popular the first name Kalina has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kalina by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Kalina is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 159 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Kalina.

The history of the first name Kalina

The name Kalina has its roots in Slavic languages, originating from the Bulgarian word "kalina," which refers to the Viburnum plant, a genus of shrubs or small trees native to the Northern Hemisphere. This name has been in use since ancient times, with various spellings such as Kalyna, Kalena, and Kalinka.

In Bulgarian folklore, the Viburnum plant holds significant symbolism, often associated with beauty, strength, and resilience. The name Kalina is believed to have been inspired by the vibrant red berries of the Viburnum, which were sometimes used in traditional medicine and culinary practices.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Kalina can be found in the epic poem "The Tale of Igor's Campaign," a 12th-century Russian literary work. In this poem, the name appears as a reference to a young woman, possibly a symbol of the motherland or a personification of nature's beauty.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Kalina. Kalina Jędrusik (1876-1949) was a Polish educator and author who wrote extensively on pedagogical methods and children's literature. Kalina Kravikovskaya (1860-1945) was a Russian philanthropist and social activist, known for her contributions to education and women's rights movements.

In the realm of the arts, Kalina Bamberski (1963-) is a Polish-French actress and director who has appeared in numerous films and theatrical productions. Kalina Malina (1994-) is a contemporary Bulgarian singer and songwriter, known for her powerful vocals and unique blend of pop and folk music.

Another notable figure is Kalina Stefanova (1978-), a Bulgarian volleyball player who represented her country in multiple Olympic Games and won several international championships, including the European Championship in 2007 and the World Grand Prix in 2012.

While the name Kalina has its roots in Slavic cultures, it has gained popularity across various regions, transcending linguistic and cultural boundaries. The name continues to be celebrated for its connection to nature, symbolism, and the rich heritage of the Slavic peoples.

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 Kalina was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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