A common name in Sweden, Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia, Lina has Persian, Greek, German and Arabic roots. Not only is it one of the most popular names in France, but it is also popular in Germany where it was used as an abbreviated form of Karolina, Nikolina, Adelina and Paulina. In Greek, Lina translates to "sunlight,” while in Persian it simply means "light," and in Arabic, it means "tender."
Famous Linas include Swedish singer Lina Hedlund and Lina Basquette, an American silent film actress. Of course, actresses Lena Headey (of “Game of Thrones” fame) and Lena Dunham also carry the name with a different spelling.