Hannah - Name Meaning and Origin
- Origin
- Hebrew
- Meaning
- Grace or Favor
- Pronunciation
- HAN-ah
- Gender
- Female
- Variations
- Channah, Hana, Hanna, Anna
- Notable Namesakes
- Hannah Baker (Fictional character in 13 Reasons Why)
- Hannah from Jane Eyre (Literary character in Charlotte Brontë's novel)
Etymology & Heritage
The name Hannah derives from the Hebrew name חַנָּה (Channah), meaning grace or favor. Its Biblical significance is profound, as Hannah appears in the Old Testament as Samuel's mother, a woman renowned for her unwavering faith, perseverance in prayer, and embodiment of grace.
As a palindrome, Hannah reads the same forwards and backwards, creating a pleasing symmetry in its phonetic structure that beautifully mirrors the balance and favor symbolized by the name in its intrinsic form.
Character & Essence
Hannah carries an inherent sense of grace, reflecting its literal meaning in Hebrew. The name possesses a gentle harmony in its sound, with its palindromic nature creating a balanced, symmetrical quality that resonates with its meaning.
The name conveys an air of simplicity, elegance, and warmth that makes it both approachable and dignified. Those familiar with the Biblical Hannah might associate the name with qualities of patience, faith, and maternal devotion—characteristics exemplified by its original namesake.
Cultural & Contemporary Significance
Hannah has maintained its popularity and timelessness throughout generations. In literature, the name appears as the loving housemaid and maternal figure in Charlotte Brontë's novel Jane Eyre. In contemporary media, Hannah Baker serves as a central character in the series 13 Reasons Why, demonstrating the name's versatility across different eras and personalities without diminishing its intrinsic appeal.
Widely embraced in Western cultures, Hannah sits comfortably across European and North American societies. In the United States, it ranked among the top 10 baby names for over a decade from the late 1990s to the early 2000s. Even today, it remains a favored choice for many parents, appreciated for its historical depth, graceful sound, and widespread cultural acceptance.