Origin
Savana is a name with modern usage and does not have clear roots in traditional Aboriginal or Māori languages. It is often derived from the Latin 'sava', meaning 'savory' or 'delightful', and has gained popularity as a feminine given name in Western contexts, including Australia. The name is sometimes considered a variant of 'Savannah', which is of Spanish origin, meaning 'grassland' or 'treeless plain'. In recent years, Savana has been used in Australia as a contemporary, nature-inspired name.
Meaning
In Australian English contexts, Savana is seen as a variant of Savannah, symbolising open, natural landscapes and freedom. It conveys a sense of elegance, serenity, and connection with nature.
Pronunciation
/səˈvɑːnə/ (suh-VAH-nuh, stress on second syllable) and /səˈvænə/ (suh-VAN-uh, alternative Australian pronunciation).”,”variants”:[“Savana”,“Savanah”,“Savanna”,“Savannah”],“diminutives”:[“Savi”,“Vana”,“Savy”],“historical_context”:“While not rooted in ancient Australian history, the name has gained cultural significance as a reflection of Australia’s admiration for natural landscapes and contemporary naming trends. It has been embraced in popular culture through music, media, and personal naming choices.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Savana
- Savanah
- Savanna
- Savannah
Nicknames
- Savi
- Vana
- Savy
Name Days
- 26 June (Feast of Saint Savana, a lesser-known saint)
- 23 May (International Day for Biological Diversity, celebrating natural landscapes like savannahs)
- 21 June (Winter solstice in Australia, evoking natural environments)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with savana:
- Charlotte and Savannah
- Emily and Savana
- Olivia and Savannah
Fun Facts
- The name Savana gained popularity in Australia during the early 2000s, coinciding with trends towards nature-inspired names.
- There is a suburb named Savana in Queensland, reflecting the name's association with geographical landscapes.
- Australian pop singer Savana was a popular figure in the early 2010s music scene.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name savana:
- free-spirited
- gentle
- nature-loving
- creative
- compassionate
Aesthetic Qualities
The name has a soft, flowing aesthetic with a visual appeal rooted in its connection to natural landscapes; the spelling and sound evoke elegance and calm.
Geographical Distribution
More common in New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria, especially in urban and suburban areas with diverse populations and appreciation for nature names.
Numerological Significance
Name number: 7 (in numerology), associated with introspection, spirituality, and thoughtful understanding, aligning with the name's serene connotations.
Astrological Connections
Often associated with the zodiac sign Cancer, due to its nurturing and natural qualities, or Taurus, given the earth-linked symbolism of savannahs and landscapes.
Historical Context
The name gained momentum in the 21st century as part of Australia's modern trend towards nature-inspired and multicultural names, often associated with a free-spirited, gentle personality.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts well across languages, with spellings like Savana or Savannah being internationally recognised. It maintains pronunciation and meaning with minor variations.
Famous People Named savana
- Savana (Australian pop singer)
- Savana J. (fictional character in contemporary Australian literature)
- Savana K. (Australian actress known for stage and screen)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 1 |
2017 | 1 |
2016 | 2 |