Nanette

Nanette is a feminine given name of French origin. It is a diminutive form of Anne formed with the suffix -ette, and has long been used as a standalone given name in various countries. Related forms include Annette and Annetta, among others. The name conveys a classic, European-influenced feel and has appeared in diverse cultures and languages.

Usage and popularity have varied over time. Nanette has been used in 19th- and 20th-century naming, particularly in English-speaking regions, though it has generally remained less common than some other variants such as Annette. In contemporary usage, it is sometimes chosen for its vintage or traditional associations.

Notable people with the name Nanette include Nanette Lepore, an American fashion designer and founder of the Nanette Lepore brand, and Nanette Fabray, an American actress, singer, and dancer known for work in stage and screen. These figures illustrate the name’s presence in the arts and public life.

In popular culture, Nanette is the title of a 2018 stand-up comedy special by Australian comedian Hannah Gadsby. The show blends memoir with social critique and has sparked discussion about gender, trauma, and representation in comedy.