Dayana is a Spanish variant of Diana, reflecting the English pronunciation of the name. While Diana has been used in Spanish-speaking countries as well, Dayana emerged as a distinct spelling that more closely mirrors how the name is pronounced in English, where the second syllable is stressed and the vowel is longer.EtymologyThe name ultimately derives from Diana, the Roman goddess of the moon, hunting, forests, and childbirth. The Latin name Diana is thought to mean "divine" or "goddesslike," from dia or diva ("goddess"), and is related to the Indo-European root *dyew- also found in Zeus. Diana was identified with the Greek goddess Artemis and held prominent cults in ancient Rome.Usage and PopularityThe variant Dayana is predominantly used in Spanish-speaking countries, especially in Latin America. It has become increasingly common due to the popularity of international figures such as Venezuelan model and Miss Universe 2008 Dayana Mendoza and professional bodybuilder Dayana Cadeau. The name also appears in countries like Ukraine and Russia, notably through tennis player Dayana Yastremska.Notable BearersDayana Mendoza (born 1986), Venezuelan Miss Universe 2008 and television personalityDayana Yastremska (born 2000), Ukrainian professional tennis playerDayana Cadeau (born 1966), Haitian-born Canadian American professional bodybuilderDayana Colmenares (born 1984), Miss Venezuela International 2007Dayana Kirillova (born 2002), Russian singerRelated NamesVariants of Dayana include Daiana (Latin American Spanish) and the original Diana (Spanish, many languages). Other language forms include Dajana (Serbian), Dijana (Slovene), Diane (French), and Di (English).Meaning: divine, goddesslikeOrigin: Latin, via Greek mythologyType: Feminine given nameRegions: Spanish-speaking countries, especially Latin America