Meaning & History
Panna is a Hungarian feminine given name, primarily a diminutive of Anna. As a short and affectionate form, it shares the same rich history and meaning as its root name, conveying grace and favor derived from its biblical roots through Hannah.
The name Anna, from which Panna derives, has been widely used across Europe due to its religious significance. In the New Testament, Anna is a prophetess who recognizes Jesus as the Messiah. Saint Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary, further popularized the name in medieval Western Christianity. The name also appears among Byzantine and Russian royalty, such as Empress Anna of Russia. Variants like Anna and Anne have been used in English alongside the local forms Ann and Anne.
Related Hungarian diminutives include Anikó, Panni, and Panka, all sharing the same affectionate tone. The name Panna itself is uncommon outside Hungary but reflects the cultural trend of creating endearing variations of classical names.
Key Facts
- Meaning: Diminutive of Anna, from Hebrew Hannah meaning “grace”
- Origin: Hungarian
- Type: First name
- Usage regions: Hungary