Love; will, desire; or helmet, protection
Minna originated as a German diminutive for Wilhelmina, but it also has roots in the Old High German word 'minne', meaning 'courtly love'. In some contexts, it is associated with the Germanic elements for 'resolute protection'. It was a popular choice in the late 19th century before becoming a rare vintage gem.
Less common today
Minna isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #3,719 in 2019.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Influential Finnish writer and social activist
The resourceful heroine of Gotthold Ephraim Lessing's 1767 play · Minna von Barnhelm
German actress and the first wife of composer Richard Wagner
Finnish Olympic sport shooter
