Melina

Often linked with Greek meli, “honey”.

Honey is one of Melina’s appealing associations. A Greek interpretation connects it with meli, “honey”; it can also develop from Mel, a short form used in names such as Melissa. In Italian, Melina can also be a short form of Carmela. The honey interpretation therefore belongs to one naming route, rather than every use of Melina. In English, muh-LEE-nuh places the strongest sound in the middle. The m, l and n keep the movement smooth, giving Melina a gentle, almost singing quality. The honey image adds a soft warmth, while the clear stressed vowel keeps the name from fading into the background. It may appeal if you enjoy sweetness in a name without a frilly written shape.

Etymology: Can be an expanded form of Mel, connected with names such as Melissa or Greek meli; other derivations also exist.