Sanna

Girl Name
Origin:hebrew
Pronunciation:/ˈsæn.ə/

Sanna: a female name of Hebrew origin meaning "This name derives from the Middle Egyptian “SŠN” and then after from the Persian root “Sousan, Susan". It derives from the Hebrew word "sšn > soussan > Šōšannā > shôshan > shôshannâh".

Sanna is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Middle Egyptian “SŠN” and then after from the Persian root “Sousan, Susan". Its Hebrew origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Sanna

Quick facts about Sanna
OriginHebrew, Old Persian, Ancient Egyptian
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Middle Egyptian “SŠN” and then after from the Persian root “Sousan, Susan.” However, the Hebrew root for the name of the lily (from Lilium family) derives from “Šōšannā > Shôshan > Shôshannâh,” which means “lotus, lily, to be joyful, bright, or cheerful.” It was first reported on an 11th Dynasty sarcophagus dating from approximately 2000 B.C. The Persian name for lily is “Soussan.” The name of Susa, an ancient city of Persia, may be derived from the lilies which abounded in the plain in which it was situated. It is the name of at least two women in the Bible.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

sšn > soussan > Šōšannā > shôshan > shôshannâh

Other Scripts

Russian (Санна)

How to Pronounce Sanna

Sanna is pronounced /ˈsæn.ə/

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: San-na
  2. Say it like: "SAN-NA"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Sanna enjoys international appeal, used in 7 different linguistic and cultural contexts including russian, norwegian, icelandic, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

russiannorwegianicelandicswedishdanishfaroesedutch
Name Relationships

Sanna is an affectionate diminutive of Susanna, commonly used in russian speaking regions. This shortened form maintains the original meaning while offering a more intimate, familiar tone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sanna
What does the name Sanna mean?
Sanna means "This name derives from the Middle Egyptian “SŠN” and then after from the Persian root “Sousan, Susan.” However, the Hebrew root for the name of the lily (from Lilium family) derives from “Šōšannā > Shôshan > Shôshannâh,” which means “lotus, lily, to be joyful, bright, or cheerful.” It was first reported on an 11th Dynasty sarcophagus dating from approximately 2000 B.C. The Persian name for lily is “Soussan.” The name of Susa, an ancient city of Persia, may be derived from the lilies which abounded in the plain in which it was situated. It is the name of at least two women in the Bible.". The name comes from sšn > soussan > Šōšannā > shôshan > shôshannâh. In its original form, the name derives from shoshan (שׁוֹשָׁן) shôshannâh (שׁוֹשַׁנָּה). This hebrew name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Sanna for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Middle Egyptian “SŠN” and then after from the Persian root “Sousan, Susan.” However, the Hebrew root for the name of the lily (from Lilium family) derives from “Šōšannā > Shôshan > Shôshannâh,” which means “lotus, lily, to be joyful, bright, or cheerful.” It was first reported on an 11th Dynasty sarcophagus dating from approximately 2000 B.C. The Persian name for lily is “Soussan.” The name of Susa, an ancient city of Persia, may be derived from the lilies which abounded in the plain in which it was situated. It is the name of at least two women in the Bible." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Sanna's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Sanna?
Sanna has hebrew and old persian and ancient egyptian origins. The name traces back to sšn > soussan > Šōšannā > shôshan > shôshannâh. The original form shoshan (שׁוֹשָׁן) shôshannâh (שׁוֹשַׁנָּה) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Sanna is written as Russian (Санна). From its hebrew roots, Sanna spread to become common in russian, norwegian, icelandic, swedish and other cultures. The hebrew meaning "This name derives from the Middle Egyptian “SŠN” and then after from the Persian root “Sousan, Susan.” However, the Hebrew root for the name of the lily (from Lilium family) derives from “Šōšannā > Shôshan > Shôshannâh,” which means “lotus, lily, to be joyful, bright, or cheerful.” It was first reported on an 11th Dynasty sarcophagus dating from approximately 2000 B.C. The Persian name for lily is “Soussan.” The name of Susa, an ancient city of Persia, may be derived from the lilies which abounded in the plain in which it was situated. It is the name of at least two women in the Bible." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Sanna a boy or girl name?
Sanna is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In hebrew tradition, Sanna has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Middle Egyptian “SŠN” and then after from the Persian root “Sousan, Susan.” However, the Hebrew root for the name of the lily (from Lilium family) derives from “Šōšannā > Shôshan > Shôshannâh,” which means “lotus, lily, to be joyful, bright, or cheerful.” It was first reported on an 11th Dynasty sarcophagus dating from approximately 2000 B.C. The Persian name for lily is “Soussan.” The name of Susa, an ancient city of Persia, may be derived from the lilies which abounded in the plain in which it was situated. It is the name of at least two women in the Bible." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Sanna?
Sanna is pronounced "/ˈsæn.ə/". This pronunciation follows eg language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Russian (Санна), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Sanna is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in russian, norwegian, icelandic, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Sanna can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root sšn > soussan > Šōšannā > shôshan > shôshannâh influences how Sanna sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Sanna?
Sanna is commonly used as a nickname for Susanna. As a diminutive of Susanna, Sanna started as an affectionate short form used by family and close friends. Many people named Susanna go by Sanna throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In hebrew cultures, using Sanna as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among girls and women, though some now use Sanna as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Sanna on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Sanna?
Sanna is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Sanna offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Sanna's popularity may vary between hebrew communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Middle Egyptian “SŠN” and then after from the Persian root “Sousan, Susan.” However, the Hebrew root for the name of the lily (from Lilium family) derives from “Šōšannā > Shôshan > Shôshannâh,” which means “lotus, lily, to be joyful, bright, or cheerful.” It was first reported on an 11th Dynasty sarcophagus dating from approximately 2000 B.C. The Persian name for lily is “Soussan.” The name of Susa, an ancient city of Persia, may be derived from the lilies which abounded in the plain in which it was situated. It is the name of at least two women in the Bible." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Sanna holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Sanna commonly used?
Sanna spans multiple cultures, including russian, norwegian, icelandic, and 4 other traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Sanna found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Sanna, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Middle Egyptian “SŠN” and then after from the Persian root “Sousan, Susan.” However, the Hebrew root for the name of the lily (from Lilium family) derives from “Šōšannā > Shôshan > Shôshannâh,” which means “lotus, lily, to be joyful, bright, or cheerful.” It was first reported on an 11th Dynasty sarcophagus dating from approximately 2000 B.C. The Persian name for lily is “Soussan.” The name of Susa, an ancient city of Persia, may be derived from the lilies which abounded in the plain in which it was situated. It is the name of at least two women in the Bible." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Sanna into their naming traditions. A child named Sanna will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Sanna is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Sanna?
Sanna carries associations with BIBLICAL. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Middle Egyptian “SŠN” and then after from the Persian root “Sousan, Susan.” However, the Hebrew root for the name of the lily (from Lilium family) derives from “Šōšannā > Shôshan > Shôshannâh,” which means “lotus, lily, to be joyful, bright, or cheerful.” It was first reported on an 11th Dynasty sarcophagus dating from approximately 2000 B.C. The Persian name for lily is “Soussan.” The name of Susa, an ancient city of Persia, may be derived from the lilies which abounded in the plain in which it was situated. It is the name of at least two women in the Bible." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In hebrew culture, where Sanna originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Sanna sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Sanna often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In russian communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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