A small stringed instrument in the lute family
Derived from the musical instrument, the name ultimately traces back to the Italian word 'mandola'. It refers to a teardrop-shaped instrument with paired metal strings, often associated with folk and classical music. As a given name, it is a modern choice for parents seeking a melodic and rare word-name.
Less common today
Mandolin isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #7,287 in 1995.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
A character in the fantasy novel series · The Books of Pellinor
