Žana: 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".
Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Žana, drawn to its Hebrew heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Middle Egyptian “SŠN” and then after from the Persian root “Sousan, Susan". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.
Quick Facts About Žana
Quick facts about Žana
Origin
Hebrew, Old Persian, Ancient Egyptian
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately 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
How to Pronounce Žana
Žana is pronounced /ˈʒɑː.nə/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Žan-a
Say it like: "ŽAN-A"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across croatian, and slovene speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
croatianslovene
Frequently Asked Questions About Žana
What does the name Žana mean?
Žana 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 Žana 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, Žana'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 Žana?
Žana 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. From its hebrew roots, Žana spread to become common in croatian, slovene. 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 Žana a boy or girl name?
Žana 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, Žana 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 Žana?
Žana is pronounced "/ˈʒɑː.nə/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Žana is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in croatian, slovene, 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 Žana can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root sšn > soussan > Šōšannā > shôshan > shôshannâh influences how Žana sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Žana?
Žana is commonly used as a nickname for Suzana. Being a shortened version of Suzana, Žana offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Suzana go by Žana throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In hebrew cultures, using Žana as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among girls and women, though some now use Žana as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Žana 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 Žana?
Žana is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Žana offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Žana'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, Žana holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Žana commonly used?
Žana is common in croatian and slovene naming traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Žana found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. 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 Žana into their naming traditions. A child named Žana 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, Žana is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Žana?
Žana 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 Žana 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 Žana sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Žana often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In croatian 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.