The name Winona is believed to have originated from the Native American Sioux language, specifically from the Dakota and Lakota dialects. It is thought to have derived from the phrase "winona kshakpe" which translates to "first-born daughter" or "eldest daughter." The name is closely associated with the Winona people, a sub-tribe of the Sioux Nation, who inhabited areas near the present-day city of Winona in Minnesota.

Records indicate that the name Winona was first documented in the late 17th century, when French explorers and missionaries encountered the Winona people. The name was mentioned in various accounts and journals, describing the local Native American tribes and their customs. One of the earliest known references to the name can be found in the writings of the French explorer Pierre-Esprit Radisson, who traveled through the area in the late 1600s.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Winona. One of the most famous was Winona LaDuke, a Native American environmentalist, economist, and writer born in 1959. She is a prominent activist for Indigenous rights and environmental justice and has received numerous honors, including the prestigious Gandhi Peace Award.

Another notable Winona was Winona Ryder, the American actress born in 1971. She rose to fame in the late 1980s and 1990s with roles in films such as "Beetlejuice," "Heathers," and "Little Women." Ryder has been praised for her versatility and has received numerous award nominations throughout her career.

In the 19th century, Winona Stevens (1846-1920) was a prominent figure in the early Native American rights movement. She was a member of the Seneca Nation and worked tirelessly to advocate for the rights and education of Native American children.

Winona Stevenson (1872-1962) was a notable artist and illustrator from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She is best known for her illustrations in children's books and magazines, capturing the beauty of nature and rural life.

Winona Judd (1892-1981) was a pioneering aviator and one of the first Native American women to earn a pilot's license. She played a significant role in promoting aviation among Indigenous communities and worked to inspire young Native Americans to pursue careers in aviation.

While the name Winona has roots in Native American culture, it has gained popularity and recognition across various communities and regions throughout history, with individuals from diverse backgrounds bearing this distinctive and meaningful name.