Iona

/eye-OH-nuh/

Old Norse / Scottish GaelicGirl

Iona is an Old Norse / Scottish Gaelic girl's name pronounced /eye-OH-nuh/. Named after the historic holy island in the Inner Hebrides, symbolizing peace and spirituality.

Meaning of Iona

Named after the historic holy island in the Inner Hebrides, symbolizing peace and spirituality.

The name is primarily derived from the Scottish Gaelic 'Ì Chaluim Chille', referring to the holy island in the Inner Hebrides. While the island's name likely originates from an Old Norse word for 'island' ('ey') or the Gaelic word 'ì', it became associated with the Greek 'Iona' (dove) due to its connection with Saint Columba, whose Latin name also means dove.

Origin
Old Norse / Scottish Gaelic
Pronunciation
/eye-OH-nuh/

Cultural background

Iona remains a popular choice in Scotland and among the Scottish diaspora, often selected for its connotations of Celtic spirituality and natural beauty.

Variations & nicknames

  • Ione
  • Ioni
  • Ionie
  • Aeona

Famous people named Iona

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Iona Brown

    Renowned British violinist and conductor

    Music · 1941–2004

  • Iona Opie

    Renowned folklorist and scholar of children's literature

    Literature · 1923–2017

  • Iona Campagnolo

    First female Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia

    Politics · 1932–2024

  • Iona Wynter

    Jamaican Olympic triathlete and cyclist

    Sport · 1990s–2000s

  • Iona Stephen

    Professional golfer and sports broadcaster

    Sport · 2010s–present

Frequently asked about Iona

What does Iona mean?
Iona refers to the 'Island of Columba' and is symbolically linked to the Greek word for 'dove', representing peace and spirituality.
How do you pronounce Iona?
It is pronounced eye-OH-nuh.
Is Iona a boy or girl name?
Iona is traditionally and predominantly used as a feminine given name.
Where does the name Iona originate from?
The name originates from the Inner Hebrides in Scotland, specifically from a small island that served as a center for Gaelic monasticism.

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