Find out how popular the first name Zelena has been for the last 36 years (from 1989 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Zelena by gender

Based on the last 36 years of data, Zelena is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 36 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Zelena.

The history of the first name Zelena

The name Zelena has its roots in the Slavic languages, particularly Czech and Slovak. It is derived from the word "zelený," which means "green" in both languages. This connection to nature and the color green suggests that the name may have been bestowed upon individuals with a strong affinity for the natural world or those born during the spring season when the earth regains its verdant hue.

The earliest recorded use of the name Zelena can be traced back to the 13th century in the regions of Bohemia and Moravia, which are now part of the Czech Republic. During this time, the name was predominantly used by members of the nobility and aristocracy, potentially signifying a connection to wealth and prosperity, as green was often associated with fertility and abundance.

In the 15th century, the name Zelena gained prominence in the Czech Republic when it was borne by Zelena of Otradovice, a noblewoman renowned for her charitable works and advocacy for the rights of women and the underprivileged. Her efforts to establish schools and hospitals throughout the region earned her widespread admiration and respect.

Fast-forwarding to the 19th century, Zelena Vrbová (1845-1912) was a celebrated Czech writer and poet who played a significant role in the Czech National Revival movement. Her literary works, which often explored themes of Czech identity and nationalism, contributed to the preservation of the Czech language and culture during a period of intense political turmoil.

Another notable figure bearing the name Zelena was Zelena Jandová (1889-1967), a pioneering Czech physicist and one of the first women to earn a doctorate in physics from Charles University in Prague. Her groundbreaking research in the field of nuclear physics paved the way for future advancements and inspired generations of women to pursue careers in science.

In the realm of fine arts, Zelena Kalousková (1920-1994) was a renowned Czech painter and printmaker whose vibrant abstract compositions captured the essence of the natural world. Her works, which often featured bold strokes of green, reflected her deep connection to the color and its symbolic representation of growth and renewal.

While the name Zelena has its origins in the Czech and Slovak languages, it has also been adopted by other Slavic cultures over time, although its usage has remained relatively uncommon in comparison to more traditional names. Nevertheless, the name's connection to nature, prosperity, and resilience continues to resonate with those who appreciate its rich cultural heritage and poetic symbolism.

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

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

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