Christina: Name Origin, Meaning, and International Variants

Christina is a classic feminine given name with deep historical and linguistic roots.

Etymology

• From Greek Χριστίνα (Christina), feminine of Χριστός (Christos) = "anointed one," translating Hebrew Mashiach (Messiah).
• Latin Christiana spread through Europe via Christianity.

Meaning

"Follower of Christ," "anointed," or "Christian woman."

Global Variants

• Scandinavian/German: Kristina, Kristin, Kirsten, Kiersten, Kerstin, Stina.
• French: Christine.
• Spanish/Italian/Portuguese: Cristina.
• English diminutives: Christie, Christy, Tina, Chrissy.

Notable Namesakes

• St. Christina of Bolsena (3rd-century martyr).
• Christina Rossetti (Victorian poet).
• Modern: Christina Aguilera, Christina Ricci, Christina Applegate.