Anna

Origin

Origin & Etymology - The name Anna derives from the Hebrew name Hannah, meaning 'grace' or 'favour'. It is a Latin form of the Greek name Anna, itself originating from the Hebrew name Hannah (חַנָּה). The name appears in ancient texts such as the Bible, notably in the Gospel of Luke, where Anna the prophetess is a figure of reverence. In Australia, the name has been adopted through Christian traditions and is common among diverse cultural communities, including Anglo-Australians, Irish, and other European descendants.

Meaning

Meaning - 'Grace' or 'Favour'. In Australian English, often associated with kindness, elegance, and a gentle character, reflecting its biblical roots.

Pronunciation

/ˈænə/ (AN-uh, with emphasis on the first syllable, common in Australian English pronunciation) including stress on the first syllable, typical Australian pronunciation.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 26 July (Feast of Saint Anne, celebrated by Catholics and Orthodox Christians)
• 9 September (Māori name day for Anna, associated with Māori community celebrations)
• 26 July (Anglican and Catholic feast day)

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with anna:

• Charlotte and Anna
• Emily and Anna–Marie
• Sophie and Anna

Fun Facts

• The name Anna consistently ranks among the top female names in Australia over the past decades.
• In Australian popular culture, characters named Anna frequently appear in children literature, such as Anna from Disney's Frozen, beloved worldwide.
• The name is often used in Australian literature as a quintessential 'friendly' and approachable female name.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name anna:

• Gentle
• Kind-hearted
• Traditional
• Elegant
• Resilient

Aesthetic Qualities

Simple, symmetrical, and visually balanced, the name Anna is aesthetically pleasing and versatile in its spelling and presentation, fitting well with both traditional and modern name styles in Australia.

Geographical Distribution

Most common in metropolitan and urban regions such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, though widely used across rural Australia as well due to its classic status.

Numerological Significance

Name number 1, indicating leadership, independence, and pioneering spirit, often associated with positive and proactive traits in personal development.

Astrological Connections

Corresponds with the zodiac sign Virgo or Aquarius, suggesting traits of practicality, independence, and humanitarianism, correlating with the name's traditional virtues.

Historical Context

The name Anna has been borne by numerous saints, royalty, and literary figures, contributing to its enduring popularity in Christian and secular societies in Australia. It is associated with qualities of grace and virtue, often reflecting a traditional and respectful image.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name adapts well across languages, maintaining its phonetic integrity in Italian, Spanish, and other European languages, with common variations dictated by linguistic orthography.

Famous People Named anna

• Anna Wintour (Fashion Editor)
• Anna Kendrick (Actress)
• Anna Palagi (Australian Actress)

Popularity in Australia