Rossanna is a feminine given name of Italian origin, derived from the Italian word "rossa," which means "red." It is believed to have been first used as a personal name in the Middle Ages, possibly as a diminutive form of names like Rosa or Rosina.
The name Rossanna gained popularity during the Renaissance period in Italy, often used by families who had red-haired members or who admired the color red. Over time, it has become more widely known and used beyond Italy's borders.
In literature, Rossanna appears as a character in several works. Most notably, she is the title character of "Rossana," an Italian opera composed by Gioachino Rossini in 1843. This may have contributed to the name's familiarity and usage outside of Italy.
While it is not one of the most common names worldwide, Rossanna is considered a unique and elegant choice for a girl's name, carrying with it the strength and beauty associated with the color red in many cultures. It is also often paired with surnames beginning with vowels to create a harmonious sound.
Rossanna is a unique and distinctive name that has seen varied popularity over the decades in the United States. According to the statistics provided, Rossanna was given to between five to eleven newborn girls each year from 1956 to 1988.
The peak years for this name were 1956 and 1964, with nine and eleven births respectively. This suggests that there may have been a particular influence or trend that led parents to choose Rossanna during these years.
However, the popularity of Rossanna seemed to wane over time, with fewer than ten births each year from 1957 onwards. The lowest recorded number of births was five in the years 1966 and 1970, indicating a significant decrease in its usage as a baby name during these periods.
Overall, Rossanna has been a relatively uncommon name in the United States, with a total of sixty-two births recorded over this thirty-three-year span. This unique status may contribute to its appeal for parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughters. Despite its fluctuations in popularity, Rossanna remains a memorable and unusual choice that stands out among more common names.