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Fiona

The name Fiona is of Gaelic origin, derived from the word 'fionn', which means 'white' or 'fair'. It was popularized in the 18th century by Scottish poet James Macpherson, who featured a character named Fiona in his Ossianic poems. This name carries an aura of elegance and simplicity and is often associated with fair and gentle beauty.

IPA: /fiˈoʊnə/ · Simplified: fee-OH-nə

Female
Gaelic
Scottish
Scotland
elegant
gentle
charming
classic

45/100

Popularity

Stable

10-Year Trend

5

Countries

2018

Peak Year

Meaning of Fiona

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

The name Fiona is of Gaelic origin, derived from the word 'fionn', which means 'white' or 'fair'. It was popularized in the 18th century by Scottish poet James Macpherson, who featured a character named Fiona in his Ossianic poems. This name carries an aura of elegance and simplicity and is often associated with fair and gentle beauty.

Does Fiona flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Fiona

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /fiˈoʊnə/ · Simplified: fee-OH-nə

Nicknames for Fiona

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Fi
Fifi
Fia
Fay

Fiona name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

57

Ireland

53

New Zealand

50

Australia

48

Canada

46

United States

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Fionna

Fionnaith

Fiohna

Names like Fiona

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Collections featuring Fiona

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

Individuals named Fiona are often associated with grace and poise. They are perceived as imaginative and thoughtful, combining a calm demeanor with an insightful spirit. Fionas may also exhibit a blend of compassion and a natural affinity for arts and culture, making them thoughtful friends and creative thinkers.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Fiona

Well-known figures who share this name.

F

Fiona Apple

American singer-songwriter, born in 1977

F

Fiona Shaw

Irish actress known for her work in Harry Potter, born in 1958

Frequently asked questions about Fiona

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Fiona mean?
Here is the meaning behind Fiona: The name Fiona is of Gaelic origin, derived from the word 'fionn', which means 'white' or 'fair'. It was popularized in the 18th century by Scottish poet James Macpherson, who featured a character named Fiona in his Ossianic poems. This name carries an aura of elegance and simplicity and is often associated with fair and gentle beauty.
Is Fiona a boy or girl name?
Fiona is traditionally a girl's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Fiona?
Fiona scores 45/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2018.
What are good nicknames for Fiona?
Popular nicknames for Fiona: Fi, Fifi, Fia, Fay.
What names are similar to Fiona?
Names similar to Fiona: Sophia, Liana, Flora, Viola — close in sound, origin, or style.

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