Pollyanna

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What does the baby name Pollyanna mean? Learn about what Pollyanna means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Pollyanna - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Pollyanna

P-O-L-L-Y-A-N-N-A, is a 9-letter female given name.

Meaning of Pollyanna

Combination name, polly + anna.

Origin of Pollyanna

The name 'Pollyanna' is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It was first introduced to the world through the novel 'Pollyanna' written by Eleanor H. Porter in 1913. The book tells the story of a young orphan girl named 'Pollyanna', who possesses an unwavering positive outlook on life. The name 'Pollyanna' quickly gained popularity after the release of the novel and has since become synonymous with optimism and positivity.

English Names

Popularity of Pollyanna

The name 'Pollyanna' experienced a notable spike in popularity following the success of the novel. It became a popular choice among parents who wanted to bestow upon their daughters a name that embodied the spirit of eternal optimism. However, over time, the name 's popularity gradually declined. Despite this decline, 'Pollyanna' remains a beloved name, cherished by those who appreciate its uplifting connotations.

Pollyanna currently has 40 likes, and is in the top 9% of liked girl's names. The name Mirielle is slightly more popular than Pollyanna.

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Etymology of Pollyanna

The name 'Pollyanna' is a combination of two names, Polly and Anna. Polly is a diminutive form of the name Mary, which has Hebrew origins and means 'bitter' or 'wished-for child'. Anna, on the other hand, is derived from the Hebrew name Hannah, meaning 'grace' or 'favor'. Therefore, the name 'Pollyanna' can be interpreted as a blend of these meanings, representing a child who brings grace and favor with her presence and is both cherished and longed for.

Cultural Significance of Pollyanna

The name 'Pollyanna' holds particular significance in American culture. It has become synonymous with the concept of the 'Pollyanna' principle', which refers to the tendency to focus on positive aspects of a situation while disregarding negative ones. This principle has influenced various fields, including psychology and business, where the power of positive thinking is emphasized.