Nanna

“grandmother or loving one”

Scandinavian origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#1648US 2023

552Births / yr

→Stable

236All-time births

📅 Since 188200

What does Nanna mean and where does it come from?

Nanna is a name of Scandinavian origin often used as an affectionate term for grandmother. It has been popular in countries like Denmark and Norway. The name Nanna also appears in Norse mythology as the wife of Baldr, highlighting its historical significance. In modern times, it has found traction a

Cultural significance

Nanna has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scandinavian-speaking communities, where it reflects values of grandmother or loving one.

Peak popularity

Reached #1010 in 1882 — currently #1648 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Nanna?

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

Nanna Grace

How popular is Nanna right now?

Holding steady — currently #1648 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1915–2023#1648 · Top 1.2%

1915

1920

1925

1930

1935

1940

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1648	552	▲ up 5 · +4% births
2022	#1653	532	▲ up 5 · +6% births
2021	#1658	502	▲ up 2251 · +8267% births
1940	#3909	6	▲ up 355 · +20% births
1935	#4264	5	▲ up 335
1930	#4599	5	▼ down 1793 · -58% births
1925	#2806	12	▲ up 125 · +9% births
1920	#2931	11	▲ up 235 · +38% births
1915	#3166	8	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Nanna

Best Year2023Rank #1648

Peak Count552

Average Rank#2959

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1915 - 20239 years

The story of Nanna

Nanna has been a beloved American name for over 142 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1882. With 236 total births recorded, Nanna remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3166 in 1915 to #1648 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Nanna in 1882:

Mary Anna Emma Elizabeth Minnie

Nanna by decade

Nanna peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	15
1890s	24
1910s	57
1920s ★	64
1930s	24
1940s	41
1970s	5
1990s	6

💎Nanna has only 236 total recorded births since 1882 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Nanna?

Common

NanNa

What names sound and feel like Nanna?

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

American · A feminine form

Nanda

India · Bliss, joy, happiness

Cambodian · វណ្ណា - goodness,

Common questions about the name Nanna

What does the name Nanna mean?

Nanna means "grandmother or loving one" — a name rooted in Scandinavian 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 Nanna?

Nanna is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Nanna?

Nanna originates from Scandinavian tradition. Scandinavian names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

Is Nanna a common or rare name?

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

What are good nicknames for Nanna?

Nanna naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.