Nina

In its European short-form tradition, the meaning depends on the longer name, such as Antonina or Giannina.

Nina is a feminine name with a European history as a short form of names such as Antonina and Giannina. Russian and Italian traditions are part of that story. In this use, its meaning follows the longer name, rather than one literal definition shared by every Nina. The resemblance to Spanish niña, ‘girl’, is easy to notice, but the words are not identical. Niña has ñ and a different pronunciation; Nina has an ordinary n. That small mark matters when comparing names by meaning or deciding how to write one. English Nina is /ˈniː.nə/, German /ˈniː.na/ and French /ni.na/. The repeated n gives it a soft, gently rhythmic sound. With little ornament and an open finish, it can feel friendly and straightforward—an appealing choice for someone who enjoys a name that is easy to say without a grand flourish.

Etymology: Nina developed as a short form of names ending in -nina, with Russian and Italian traditions among its European roots.