Ivana is a feminine given name of Slavic origin, particularly from the region of Croatia and other former Yugoslavian countries. It comes from the Slavic word "vivana," which means "graceful" or "lively." The name Ivana has been used since at least the Middle Ages in Eastern Europe, but it gained significant popularity in the 20th century.
The name Ivana is composed of two elements: "ivi-," meaning "life" or "alive," and "-ana," a suffix that often denotes femininity. Thus, Ivana can be interpreted as "the living one" or "full of life." However, it's essential to note that the exact etymology of Ivana is not entirely clear, and there are variations in its meaning depending on the source.
One notable historical figure with the name Ivana was Ivanić (or Ivona), a legendary queen from medieval Croatia. She is remembered for her courageous defense against Venetian invaders in the 13th century. Although it's uncertain whether she was called Ivana or Ivona, her legacy has contributed to the popularity of both names in the region.
In recent times, Ivana has become more internationally recognized due to prominent figures such as Ivana Trump (born Marie Ivana Želníčková), a former model and businessman who became known for her marriage to Donald Trump. Despite this association, it's important not to conflate the name with any one individual or their actions.
In summary, Ivana is a feminine given name of Slavic origin, predominantly used in Eastern Europe, that means "graceful" or "lively." Its history spans centuries and includes notable figures like Queen Ivanić. While its popularity has grown globally due to famous bearers, Ivana remains an enduring and meaningful name with deep roots in Slavic culture.
The name Ivana saw a significant increase in popularity over time, with only five births recorded in 1943 and reaching a peak of 266 births in 2010. From the late 1960s to the early 1970s, there was a notable rise in the number of girls named Ivana, indicating that it became more fashionable during this period. However, since around 2005, the name's popularity has stabilized and even decreased slightly, although it still remains relatively common with over 200 births each year from 2016 onwards. In total, there have been 7597 births named Ivana between 1943 and 2023.