Dana f, m
1 (f.) E. European: for the most part a feminine form of DAN (1) (SEE Dan) or DANIEL (SEE Daniel). In Poland it is also used as a short form of Bogdana (see BOGDAN (SEE Bogdan)) and a pet form of DARIA (SEE Daria).
2 (f., m) English (esp. U.S.): from the surname, which is relatively common in the United States, but of uncertain derivation. Use as a given name began in honour of Richard Dana (1815–82), author of Two Years before the Mast. A lawyer by profession, he supported the rights of fugitive slaves, and lent his backing to the Union during the Civil War.
Pet forms (of I): Czech: Danka, Danuše, Danuška, Danička, Danul(k)a.
First names dictionary. 2012.