Pronunciation | /ˈdɒnə/; Italian: [ˈdɔnna] |
---|---|
Gender | Female |
Language(s) | English |
Origin | |
Language(s) | Italian |
Derivation | Latin: domina |
Meaning | 'lady' |
Donna[1] is an English-language feminine first name meaning 'woman' in modern Italian, and 'lady' or 'mistress' in classical Italian.[2] The original meaning is closer to 'lady of the home' and was a title of respect in Italy, equivalent to Don[2] for gentlemen or lord. It is a common given name in the United States, particularly in Chicago, Florida, New York City, and Washington.[citation needed] It is rare as a surname.[citation needed]