Sand or sandy place
Derived from the Latin word 'harena', meaning sand. Historically, it referred to the sand-covered central area of an amphitheater where gladiatorial contests took place, used to soak up blood. In modern usage, it has transitioned from a place name to a rare, rhythmic feminine given name.
Less common today
Arena isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #7,573 in 2020.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
New Zealand Member of Parliament
