Anna

Anna is a feminine given name used across many languages and cultures. It derives from the Hebrew name Channah (Hannah), meaning grace or favor, and entered Western usage via Latin and Greek, becoming common across Europe. In Christian tradition, Saint Anne (Anne) is the mother of the Virgin Mary, a figure venerated in Catholic and Orthodox churches, which contributed to the name’s widespread adoption. Because of its simplicity and pleasant sound, Anna has endured as a standalone name and as the basis for longer forms in various languages.

Variants include Ana (Spanish, Portuguese), Anya (Slavic and Scandinavian languages), Anne (English), and Hannah (related form in Hebrew and English). The name appears in many cultures with slight spelling differences, but the pronunciation tends to be similar: two syllables, often with the stress on the first. The name has been used in literature, music, and film, contributing to its enduring popularity.

Notable bearers and cultural references include Anna Akhmatova, Russian poet; Anna Pavlova, Russian ballerina; Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of Vogue; Anna Kendrick, American actress; and the fictional Anna Karenina, the title character of Tolstoy’s novel. The name remains a common choice for girls and appears frequently in public life and fiction, reflecting its broad cultural resonance.