una

Una is a term with several uses in languages and names. In Italian and Spanish, una is the feminine singular indefinite article meaning “a” or “an.” In Latin, una is the feminine form of unus, meaning “one.” The word also appears as a personal name and in place names across cultures.

As a given name, Una is used in English-speaking countries and in Ireland. In classic English literature, Una is a virtuous princess who travels with the Redcrosse Knight in Sir Edmund Spenser’s The Faerie Queene, where she embodies the virtue of Truth. In modern times, Una remains in use as a female first name and has been borne by several public figures.

Geography: The Una River is a major river in the western Balkans, flowing through what is now Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia. It is noted for its striking canyons and emerald water. The name Una also appears in regional administrative terms, such as the Una-Sana Canton of Bosnia and Herzegovina, reflecting the river’s regional influence.

Other uses: Una is the title of a 2016 drama film directed by Benedict Andrews, adapted from David Harrower’s play Blackbird. The name also appears in various works of fiction as a character name, and continues to be used as a given name in contemporary contexts.