Nana
Nana is a girl's name of Japanese origin.
Meaning
Meaning varies by culture: 'seven' or 'greens' in Japanese, 'royal' or 'title of respect' in Akan, and 'grace' as a diminutive of Hannah.
Origin and history
Nana is a name with diverse origins across multiple cultures, notably used in Japan, West Africa (such as Ghana), and parts of Europe. In Japanese, its meaning depends on the kanji used, often associated with 'seven' or 'greens', while in Akan traditions it serves as an honorific title. In the United States, it is a rare given name, often recognizable as a affectionate term for a grandmother.
Popularity in the United States
2,530 babies in the United States have been named Nana since 1880. It ranks #3514 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1996.
States where it is most popular
- NY (63.4 %)
- CA (18.1 %)
- MD (5.5 %)
- VA (3.4 %)
- KY (2.9 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 49 |
| 1890-1900 | 85 |
| 1900-1910 | 53 |
| 1910-1920 | 174 |
| 1920-1930 | 205 |
| 1930-1940 | 182 |
| 1940-1950 | 202 |
| 1950-1960 | 172 |
| 1960-1970 | 108 |
| 1970-1980 | 170 |
| 1980-1990 | 192 |
| 1990-2000 | 269 |
| 2000-2010 | 345 |
| 2010-2019 | 219 |
| 2020-2029 | 105 |
Famous people named Nana
- Nana Mizuki: Voice Actress, Singer
- Nana Visitor: Actress
- Nana Mouskouri: Singer
Fun facts
- Nana exists independently in multiple linguistic traditions, including Japanese, West African Akan, and European diminutives.
- In Ghana and parts of West Africa, 'Nana' is traditionally used as an honorific title for monarchs and elders.