Yona

Yona is a name suitable for both girls and boys, regarded as a modern Hebrew variant of the biblical name Jonas, which traces back to the origin Jona. The meaning of the name is "the dove" or, in a broader interpretation, also "the bringer of peace" as well as "the peace-loving one."

What does the name Yona mean?

The name Yona, which is used for both girls and boys, represents a modern Hebrew form of the biblical name Jonas, which in turn goes back to Jona. It means "the dove" or, more freely interpreted, "the bringer of peace" and "the peace-loving one." The origin can be found in the ancient Hebrew word jônâ or yônā (יוֹנָה), which means "the dove." There may also be a connection to the ancient Greek oiōnós (οἰωνός), which describes "omen," "premonition," or "sign." In India, the name is also used and means "the bear." In Japanese, however, it is associated with "the moon." The dove is considered a symbol of peace in biblical symbolism and also refers to the Holy Spirit (Trinity), making the Holy Spirit the patron of the name. Other variants of the name include Iona, Yonit, and Yonina. In the Bible, Junis was a prophet of the Old Testament who was saved from drowning by a whale that swallowed him and spat him out three days later.

Where does the name Yona come from?

The name Yona has ancient Hebrew roots and is used for both girls and boys. Its meaning is "the bringer of peace."

How do you pronounce Yona?

The pronunciation of Yona is two syllables and open. In German, the name is usually pronounced as "Jo-na" [ˈjoːna], with the first syllable stressed. The long O sound gives the name a certain depth, while the open A at the end radiates warmth and softness. Yona thus conveys a calm and friendly impression – simple, harmonious, and present.

When is the name day of Yona?

The name day of Yona is celebrated on September 21 and 22.

Popularity

Yona enjoys great popularity in Germany. The name currently ranks 2,723rd on the list of the most common female first names. Yona achieved its best placement in 2008 with 1,636th place. In the last ten years, the name has been given about 70 times, leading to a 3,114th place in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, Yona ranks 3,047th. Worldwide, Yona shows different rankings in the first name charts of various countries.

Nicknames & pet names

Yo / Yon / Yonalein / Yoni

Famous people

• Yona (protagonist of the anime: Akatsuki no Yona)
• Yona Friedman (Hungarian artist)
• Yona Knight-Wisdom (Jamaican diver)
• Yona Kosashvili (Georgian chess player)
• Yona Sabar (linguist)
• Yona Verwer (Dutch painter)
• Yona Walesi (swimmer)
• Yona Wallach (American musician)