An

Origin

Derived from the Latin name 'Anna', which itself originates from the Hebrew name 'Hannah', meaning 'grace' or 'favour'. The name 'Anna' has been widely adopted across Christian, Jewish, and secular cultures throughout history, appearing in biblical texts, medieval Europe, and beyond. In Australia, the name has maintained enduring popularity, often chosen for its classic simplicity and spiritual connotations.

Meaning

Literal translation: 'Grace' or 'favour'. In the Australian context, it also conveys a sense of elegance, kindness, and timelessness, frequently associated with traditional values and gracefulness.

Pronunciation

/ˈæn.ə/ (Australian English pronunciation, stress on the first syllable, with a clear 'a' as in 'cat'), emphasizing a soft 'a' sound and a gentle 'n' sound.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 26 July (Feast of Saint Anne)
• 9 April (Catholic feast day)
• Māori: Not specifically associated with a name day, but often celebrated on the feast of Saint Anne in Christian communities)

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with an:

• Elizabeth and Anna
• Charlotte and Anna
• Emma and Anna-adelaide

Fun Facts

• The name Anna has been used by numerous Australian celebrities, including Anna Burke, a prominent politician.
• In Australian popular culture, the name features in various literary and film characters symbolising kindness and strength.
• The name's simplicity has made it a popular choice for Australian baby names over decades.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name an:

• Gentle
• Elegant
• Traditional
• Caring
• Graceful

Aesthetic Qualities

Simple and symmetrical, the name 'Anna' lends itself to elegant typography, often associated with classic or vintage aesthetics in branding and design.

Geographical Distribution

Most common in urban and suburban areas across Australia, with slightly higher popularity in states with significant Christian and immigrant communities, such as Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland.

Numerological Significance

Name number 1, associated with leadership, independence, and pioneering spirit in numerology. This suggests qualities of confidence and originality in individual personality analyses.

Astrological Connections

No specific astrological associations, but often linked to the zodiac sign Taurus or Cancer, aligning with traits of stability, nurturing, and sensitivity.

Historical Context

The name has been borne by numerous saints, including Saint Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary, making it a popular name in Christian traditions and within Australian Catholic communities. In the 19th and 20th centuries, it became a staple in Australian naming practices, denoting familial devotion and cultural heritage.

Linguistic Adaptability

Usually retained as 'Anna' in most languages, with minor variations in spelling or pronunciation; in non-Latin scripts, transliterations follow phonetic conventions.

Famous People Named an

• Anna PACIFIC (Australian actress)
• Anna Bligh (former Premier of Queensland)
• Anna Kendrick (Australian-born American actress)

Popularity in Australia