Penina is a unique and uncommon feminine given name of Hebrew origin. Its meaning is derived from the Hebrew word "peninah," which translates to "pearl" or "precious gem." The name Penina has deep roots in Jewish history and culture, with its earliest appearances in the Bible.
In the Old Testament, Peninah was the wife of Elkanah and the mother of several children. She is primarily known for being the rival of Hannah, who later became the mother of the prophet Samuel. Despite her portrayal as a rival, some interpretations suggest that Peninah may have been a more compassionate figure than initially perceived.
Throughout history, Penina has been a popular name among Jewish communities and has also gained recognition in other cultures due to its biblical origins and appealing meaning. While it is not as commonly used today as many other Hebrew names, such as Sarah or Rachel, those who bear the name Penina carry with them a rich history and unique identity.
In terms of usage, Penina is typically pronounced /peh-NEE-nah/, with emphasis on the second syllable. It has been adapted into various languages and cultures throughout its history, resulting in different spellings and variations, such as Penina (Hebrew), Peninnia (Latin), and Pinna (Italian).
In conclusion, Penina is a distinctive feminine given name with Hebrew origins, meaning "pearl" or "precious gem." With a rich historical background rooted in the Bible, this unique name offers those who bear it a strong connection to Jewish culture and heritage.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Penina has seen a fluctuating trend in popularity over the past seven decades in the United States.
The name first appeared in the top 1000 names list in 1953 with six births recorded that year. The next notable peak was in 1974 when there were twelve births, indicating a growing interest in the name during this period. However, it seems that Penina's popularity began to decline after the mid-1970s as the number of births per year dropped significantly.
It wasn't until the late 1980s and early 1990s that we started to see a resurgence in the name's popularity, with twenty births recorded in both 1988 and 1992. This upward trend continued into the new millennium, with Penina reaching its peak popularity in recent years. In 2022 alone, there were thirty-nine births recorded, marking a significant increase compared to previous years.
Overall, while Penina may not have been one of the most popular names throughout history, it has maintained a steady presence in the United States, with fluctuations in popularity over time. Its recent resurgence suggests that the name continues to appeal to parents looking for unique and distinctive names for their children.