פְּנִינָה

Penina

girlHebrewJewishChristian

Penina is a Jewish girl name of Hebrew origin, meaning “Pearl”.

MeaningPearl
GenderGirl
OriginHebrew
Written asפְּנִינָה
Pronunciationpeh-NEE-nah
TraditionJewish, Christian
Used inIsrael, United States

Meaning and origin of Penina

Penina is the modern Hebrew form of Peninnah, whose name is usually explained as 'pearl' or 'coral', from Hebrew pnina. In 1 Samuel 1 she is one of the two wives of Elkanah, alongside Hannah, the mother of the prophet Samuel. Although Peninnah is portrayed unfavourably for taunting Hannah, the modern name is chosen for its lovely meaning. It is a well-used name in Israel and among Jewish families elsewhere.

Is Penina a Jewish name?

Penina is a biblical Hebrew name, from Peninnah in 1 Samuel 1, and is used mainly by Jewish families.

How popular is Penina?

Used in Israel and among observant Jewish families abroad.

Gifts with the name Penina

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Spellings and variants of Penina

PeninnahPnina

Names similar to Penina

More Jewish girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Penina mean?

Penina means 'Pearl'. It is of Hebrew origin.

Is Penina a Jewish name?

Penina is a biblical Hebrew name, from Peninnah in 1 Samuel 1, and is used mainly by Jewish families.

How do you pronounce Penina?

Penina is pronounced peh-NEE-nah.

Is Penina a boy or girl name?

Penina is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.