Blandina – Name Meaning
The name Blandina is of Latin origin and means “gentle” or “mild.” It is a feminine form of the name Blandinus, which was derived from the Latin word blandus, meaning “soft” or “tender.” The name Blandina has been used in various cultures throughout history, including in France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.
History and Origin
The name Blandina has its roots in ancient Rome. It was first recorded as a female given name in the 4th century AD. During this time, it was popular among Roman families who wanted to honor their ancestors with a unique name. The popularity of the name continued into the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, when it was used by both royalty and commoners alike.
In more recent times, the name Blandina has become increasingly popular in Europe and North America. In France, it is often spelled Blondine or Blondinette. In Italy, it is sometimes spelled Blandina or Blandinella. In Spain and Portugal, it is usually spelled Blandina or Blandine.
Popularity
The name Blandina is not particularly popular in the United States today. According to Social Security Administration data from 2019, there were only about 50 babies born with this name that year. However, it is much more popular in other countries such as France and Italy where it ranks among the top 100 most popular names.
Famous People Named Blandina
There are several famous people who have borne the name Blandina throughout history. One of the most notable is Saint Blandina of Lyons (died 177 AD), a Christian martyr who was tortured for her faith during the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. Another famous bearer of this name was Italian actress and singer Maria Grazia Cucinotta (born 1968), best known for her roles in films such as Il Postino (1994) and The World Is Not Enough (1999).