What does Ann mean and where does it come from?
The name Ann is derived from the Hebrew name Hannah (חַנָּה), which means 'grace' or 'favor'. It is commonly used in various cultures, including English, French, and Spanish-speaking countries. The name Ann has been popular since the Middle Ages and often appears in combination with other names, suc
Cultural significance
Ann has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of grace.
Peak popularity
Reached #28 in 1936 — currently #1073 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Ann?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Ann?
Ann works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ann Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Ann Rose
Floral · soft ending
Ann Claire
French influence · crisp
Ann Jane
Literary · strong
Ann Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Ann right now?
Rising — up 26 spots — currently #1073 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1073 | 231 | ▲ up 26 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1099 | 227 | ▲ up 3 · +1% births |
| 2021 | #1102 | 224 | ▲ up 2 · +3% births |
| 2020 | #1104 | 218 | ▼ down 207 · -29% births |
| 2015 | #897 | 306 | ▲ up 16 · +7% births |
| 2010 | #913 | 285 | ▼ down 271 · -34% births |
| 2005 | #642 | 434 | ▼ down 149 · -21% births |
| 2000 | #493 | 546 | ▼ down 139 · -27% births |
| 1995 | #354 | 743 | ▼ down 105 · -34% births |
| 1990 | #249 | 1,125 | ▼ down 61 · -22% births |
| 1985 | #188 | 1,443 | ▼ down 53 · -34% births |
| 1980 | #135 | 2,171 | ▼ down 31 · -20% births |
| 1975 | #104 | 2,717 | ▼ down 42 · -53% births |
| 1970 | #62 | 5,737 | ▼ down 3 · -15% births |
| 1965 | #59 | 6,781 | — |
The story of Ann
Ann has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #28 in 1936. More than 470,469 babies have been named Ann since 1880. Once ranked #122 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1073 in 2023. Ann is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Ann in 1936:
Ann by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 2,104 | |
| 1890s | 4,688 | |
| 1900s | 9,960 | |
| 1910s | 39,614 | |
| 1920s | 49,975 | |
| 1930s | 64,308 | |
| 1940s | 77,009 | |
| 1950s ★ | 87,216 | |
| 1960s | 72,286 | |
| 1970s | 32,168 | |
| 1980s | 15,997 | |
| 1990s | 7,898 | |
| 2000s | 4,302 | |
| 2010s | 2,726 | |
| 2020s | 218 | |
What are good nicknames for Ann?
CROATIAN
AnicaAnitaAnjaAnkaAnkicaNensi
What names sound and feel like Ann?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ann also consider these
How is Ann written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Ann
What does the name Ann mean?
Ann means "grace" — a name rooted in Hebrew tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Ann?
Ann is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Ann?
Ann originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Ann?
Ann is a one-syllable name pronounced AE1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Ann sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Ann flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Ann ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.