donna

¹ American  

[dawn-nah] / ˈdɔn nɑ /

noun

1. (initial capital letter) Madam; Lady: an Italian title of respect prefixed to the given name of a woman.

2. an Italian lady.

---

Donna ² American  

[don-uh] / ˈdɒn ə /

noun

1. a female given name.

---

Donna British  

/ ˈdɒnə, ˈdɔnna /

noun

1. an Italian title of address equivalent to Madam, indicating respect

---

Etymology

Origin of donna

1660–70; < Italian < Latin domina, feminine of dominus

Example Sentences

Starring Vanessa Williams as the titular prima donna, the brilliantly named Ebony Scrooge, the film follows Ebony’s transformation from penny-pinching pop star to charitable altruist.

From Salon • Dec. 24, 2025

The cover of Renée Fleming’s new compilation of live performances from the Metropolitan Opera portrays the company’s long-reigning prima donna in a gilt, Klimt-esque image — the portrait of a luxurious voice.

From New York Times • Jan. 26, 2023

On the back of such stories, Andrews was given a slew of lionising monikers: "prima donna in pigtails," "infant prodigy of trills," "the miracle voice" and "Britain's juvenile coloratura."

From Salon • Oct. 10, 2022

Ahead of her debut in Broadway’s ‘Funny Girl,’ ‘Glee’ star Lea Michele discussed the allegations about her microaggressions and prima donna behavior.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 7, 2022

You really are a tiresome little prima donna.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan