Meaning & History
Selina is a feminine given name that emerged in English and German usage, considered either a variant of Celina or Selena. As an English name, it first came into use in the 17th century, and its spelling reflects a blend of different linguistic influences.
Etymology
Selina may be traced to two possible origins. One path leads to Celina, which is a feminine form of the Roman family name Caelinus, itself derived from Caelius. Caelius comes from Latin caelum meaning "heaven". Another route connects Selina to Selena, a variant of Selene, the Greek goddess of the moon. This duality gives the name both a celestial and classical quality.
Notable Bearers
Notable individuals with this name include Selina Barrios (born 1993), an American former professional boxer; Selina Büchel (born 1991), a Swiss middle-distance runner; Selina Chow (born 1945), a Hong Kong politician and broadcaster; Selina Cooper (1864–1946), an English suffragist; and Selina Fillinger (born 1994), an American playwright and screenwriter. Others include Selina Brown, founder of the Black British Book Festival; Selina Cossgrove (1849–1929), a developer of the Girl Peace Scouts movement in New Zealand; and Selina Egle (born 2003), an Austrian luger. The name's varied bearers span sports, politics, literature, and activism.
Cultural Significance
Selina holds a place in popular culture as well, frequently appearing in literature and media. Its use has spread beyond English and German contexts, making it a recognizable name across many regions. The combination of historical depth and modern appeal keeps the name current while linking it to ancient mythology and Roman heritage.
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Selina