Name Anna still holds strong popularity, Polish registry data shows
Data from Poland's population registry shows Anna remains the country's most common female name, even though it has become far less popular among newborns in recent years. In Latvia, the name is also widespread, borne by nearly 20,000 women.
Data from Poland's PESEL population registry shows that Anna remains the most common female name in the country, currently held by more than a million Polish residents. The information was reported by the outlet "Antyradio," citing official registry statistics.
Ancient origins and meaning
Anna is one of the oldest female names in the world, derived from the ancient Hebrew name Hannah. Its meaning is associated with grace and favor. The name has been recognized and widely used across many cultures and languages for centuries.
In Poland, the name's popularity dates back to the 13th century, with Christian tradition playing a major role in its spread — Anna was the name of the Virgin Mary's mother. This religious connection helped the name maintain a lasting presence across generations.
Declining popularity among newborns
While Anna remains the most common female name overall in Poland, its popularity among newborns has notably declined in recent years. In 2023, the name Anna was given to only 1,581 girls, placing it just 28th on the list of most chosen names for newborn girls. This suggests that modern parents increasingly favor rarer names, though classic names with deep historical roots continue to maintain a strong presence in society, carried across multiple generations.
According to experts, the secret behind the name's lasting popularity lies in its universality and its bright, positive meaning, which keeps it appealing regardless of the era.
In Latvia, the name Anna is also widespread — according to available data, it is borne by 19,446 women.
