The name Lonna is believed to have its origins in the Scandinavian languages, particularly in Norwegian and Swedish. It is derived from the Old Norse word "lind," which means "lime tree" or "linden tree." The name is thought to have been initially used as a surname, referring to someone who lived near or was associated with linden trees.

In the Middle Ages, the name Lonna gained popularity in Scandinavia and was used as a feminine given name. It was a common name among Norwegian and Swedish women during this period. The earliest recorded instances of the name date back to the 13th and 14th centuries.

One of the earliest known individuals with the name Lonna was Lonna Sigurdsdotter, a Norwegian noblewoman who lived in the 13th century. She was the daughter of Sigurd Erlingsson, a prominent Norwegian nobleman and member of the powerful Erling clan.

In the 16th century, Lonna Pedersdotter, a Swedish woman from Stockholm, was mentioned in historical records as a prominent merchant and landowner. She played a significant role in the economic life of the city during her time.

During the 17th century, Lonna Grabow, a German-born Swedish writer and translator, made a name for herself as one of the first female writers in Sweden. She was born in 1635 and is best known for her translations of religious texts and her pioneering work in promoting the education of women.

In the 19th century, Lonna Inge, a Norwegian painter and illustrator, gained recognition for her portraits and landscape paintings. She was born in 1859 and was a prominent figure in the Norwegian art scene of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Another notable individual with the name Lonna was Lonna Wilkinson, an American singer and actress who lived from 1905 to 1987. She appeared in several Broadway productions and was known for her work in the musical theater genre.

While the name Lonna has its roots in Scandinavia, it has been used in various parts of the world over the centuries, albeit to a lesser extent than in its regions of origin. The name carries a connection to nature and the symbolic significance of the linden tree, which has been revered in many cultures for its beauty and medicinal properties.