Donika

Meaning of Donika

Donika is a feminine given name of Albanian and South Slavic origin, ultimately derived from the Latin dominus (“lord”), carrying connotations of devotion and leadership. The name first gained historical prominence through Donika Kastrioti, the wife of Albanian national hero Skanderbeg, and remains familiar in Bulgaria and North Macedonia (pronounced doh-NEE-kah, /do.ˈni.ka/) as well as in Albania (DOH-nee-kah, /dɔ.ˈni.kə/). In the United States, Donika has appeared sporadically since the early 1970s, typically ranking in the 700s and 800s—it never quite broke the top 500—and most recently placed 941st in 2011 with six recorded births. Although it has never dominated the popularity charts, its consistent presence suggests a quiet appeal for parents seeking a name with historical depth and distinctive character. Donika thus offers a blend of cultural resonance and modest individuality, making it an attractive alternative to more common Latinate names.

Pronunciation

Bulgarian,Macedonian

• Pronunced as doh-NEE-kah (/do.ˈni.ka/)

Albanian

• Pronunced as DOH-nee-kah (/dɔ.ˈni.kə/)

• Monika
• Danika
• Danica
• Donia
• Denika
• Dominika
• Donata