Linnea is a feminine given name of Swedish origin, derived from the Swedish word "linn," meaning "linden tree." The linden tree holds significant cultural and symbolic importance in Scandinavian folklore and mythology, often associated with love, fertility, and protection.

The name Linnea is believed to have emerged during the 18th century, inspired by the renowned Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus, who was known as the "father of modern taxonomy." Linnaeus had a deep fascination with the linden tree and used its Latin name, Tilia, as a part of his botanical classification system.

In Swedish literature, the name Linnea gained prominence through the 1828 novel "The Curate's Guest: A Narrative of the Last Century" by Fredrika Bremer. The novel featured a character named Linnea, who embodied the virtues of Swedish womanhood, contributing to the name's popularity.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Linnea can be traced back to the 16th century, when a Swedish noblewoman named Linnea Ribbing (1520-1580) was mentioned in historical records. However, the name remained relatively obscure until the 19th century when it gained wider usage.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Linnea, including:

1. Linnea Arvidsson (1826-1892), a Swedish artist and illustrator known for her botanical illustrations.
2. Linnea Qvick (1958-2009), a Swedish singer and actress who gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s.
3. Linnea Malmö (born 1992), a Swedish pop singer and songwriter who rose to fame as a contestant on the reality show "Idol" in 2010.
4. Linnea Torstenson (born 1983), a Swedish singer and songwriter who has represented Sweden in international song contests.
5. Linnea Paulina Hellriegel (1821-1904), a Swedish author and translator who played a significant role in introducing European literature to Swedish readers.

While the name Linnea has its roots in Swedish culture and language, it has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, particularly in Scandinavian countries and regions with strong Nordic influences. The name's connection to nature and its melodic sound have contributed to its appeal across various cultures.