What Does the Name Davina Mean?
Davina means "beloved" or "dearly loved," carrying the same Hebrew root — dod — as David. It's essentially a feminine counterpart to one of the most enduring biblical names, built by adding a feminine ending to the original.
The Origin & History of Davina
The name developed in Scotland as a feminine form of David, a name with deep roots there through clan and royal naming traditions (several Scottish kings were named David). A 17th-century variant, Davina, is sometimes tied to the Latin word "divina" ("divine one"), though this Latin link is weaker evidence than the well-documented Hebrew-via-David origin.
Cultural Reach
Davina has remained most common in Scotland and England, where it's used as a formal, slightly old-fashioned alternative to more popular David-derived names like Davina's male counterpart. In the US it stays rare and distinctive, which is part of its appeal to parents wanting a name with Celtic flavor.
Personality & Traits
A name meaning "beloved" suggests warmth and affection, and Davina's slightly formal, old-world sound gives it a graceful, composed feel — elegant rather than trendy.
Famous People Named Davina
Davina McCall is a prominent British television presenter, best known for hosting "Big Brother" in the UK and for her later work on menopause health advocacy.
Popularity as a Given Name
SSA data recorded 452 girls named Davina in the US in 2024, essentially flat from 452 in 2023 — a small, stable name that hasn't trended up or down.
Nicknames & Variants
Common nicknames include Vina, Davi, and Vinnie. The name is directly tied to David, Davis, and Davida as related forms.