Bana

“young, plump” — Associated with nature

Japan origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#12345US 2023

7Births / yr

↓Falling

162All-time births

📅 Since 199000

How to pronounce Bana

BAH·NAH

/ˈbɑ.ˈnɑ/ · stress on BAH · 2 syllables

“young, plump”

Associated with nature · Japan origin

What does Bana mean and where does it come from?

In Japan, Bana (ばな) can denote youth and vitality, often associated with nature. It is occasionally used as a nickname or given to girls born in spring. In Bulgaria, the name carries connotations of strength and utility. Although not widespread, it is recognized in certain communities. The name's ro

Cultural significance

Bana has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of young, plump.

Peak popularity

Reached #7152 in 2014 — currently #12345 in the US.

🌿

How else can you spell Bana?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

Banah

Spelling variant

What middle names flow best with Bana?

Bana works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Bana Grace

How popular is Bana right now?

Falling — down 1833 spots — currently #12345 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1990–2023#12345 · Top 9.1%

1990

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#12345	7	▼ down 1833 · -22% births
2022	#10512	9	▼ down 2826 · -36% births
2021	#7686	14	▲ up 6251 · +133% births
2020	#13937	6	▼ down 4765 · -50% births
2015	#9172	12	▲ up 3571 · +100% births
1990	#12743	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Bana

Best Year2021Rank #7686

Peak Count14

Average Rank#11066

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1990 - 20236 years

The story of Bana

Bana is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1990. With 162 total births recorded, Bana remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #12743 in 1990 to #12345 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Bana in 2014:

Emma Olivia Sophia Isabella Ava

Bana by decade

Bana peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1990s	18
2000s	34
2010s ★	104
2020s	6

💎Bana has only 162 total recorded births since 1990 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Bana?

Common

BanBanieBany

What names sound and feel like Bana?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Bana also consider these

Kana

Japan · Flower, a name

Mana

Japan · affection, love, or

Banna

African · Swahili

Lana

American · affectionate or sea

Ana

Hebrew · אָנָה - 'grace'

Common questions about the name Bana

What does the name Bana mean?

Bana means "young, plump" — a name rooted in Japan 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 Bana?

Bana is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl 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 Bana?

Bana originates from Japan tradition. Japan 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 Bana?

Bana is a two-syllable name pronounced B AA1 N AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Bana a common or rare name?

Bana is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.