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Name meaning & originPolina Полина

/pah-LEE-nah/

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Polina is a Greek girl's name pronounced /pah-LEE-nah/. A graceful name often associated with the sun god Apollo or meaning small and humble.

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Meaning of Polina

A graceful name often associated with the sun god Apollo or meaning small and humble.

Polina is a Greek feminine name derived from Apollinaris, which stems from Apollo, the Greek god of light, music, and prophecy. Alternatively, it is often treated as the Russian and Eastern European diminutive of Paula, originating from the Latin 'paulus' meaning small or humble.

Origin
Greek
Pronunciation
/pah-LEE-nah/

Cultural background

The name is exceptionally popular in Russia, Ukraine, Bulgaria, and Greece, often chosen for its elegant and classic resonance. It transitioned from a nickname for Apollinaria or Paulina into a popular independent given name.

Variations & nicknames

  • Paulina
  • Pollie
  • Polly
  • Polya
  • Paulyne
  • Pavlina

Famous people named Polina

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

  • Polina Gagarina

    Russian singer and songwriter who represented Russia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2015.

    Music · 2000s-present

  • Polina Semionova

    Renowned Russian ballet dancer and principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre.

    Dance · 2000s-present

  • Polina Astakhova

    Soviet gymnast who won ten medals at the Summer Olympics.

    Sport · 1950s-1960s

  • Polina Edmunds

    American figure skater and silver medalist at the 2014 and 2016 U.S. Championships.

    Sport · 2010s-present

  • Polina Porizkova

    Czechoslovak-born model and actress, the first Central European woman on the cover of Sports Illustrated.

    Fashion · 1980s-present

Frequently asked about Polina

What does Polina mean?
Polina means 'small' or 'humble' from its Latin roots, and it is also associated with 'of Apollo,' referring to the Greek god of light and sun.
How do you pronounce Polina?
It is typically pronounced puh-LEE-nah, with the emphasis on the second syllable.
Is Polina a boy or girl name?
Polina is exclusively a feminine given name.
Is Polina a common name?
Yes, it is highly common in Slavic-speaking countries and has seen steady use in Greece and parts of Western Europe.

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