Deanna is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the male name Dean, which itself comes from the Old English word 'deor', meaning 'valley'. The female form Deanna was first used in the early 20th century and gained popularity in the mid-century.
The name Deanna does not have a specific meaning attached to it beyond its origins. However, it has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. For instance, Saint Deodatus was an Italian bishop who lived in the 6th century, and although his name is spelled differently, it shares the same root word as Deanna.
In literature and entertainment, Deanna has been used for various characters. One example is Deanna Troi, a character from the Star Trek franchise who serves as a Counselor and empath on the USS Enterprise-D. This usage may have contributed to the name's popularity in recent decades.
Overall, Deanna is a unique and distinctive feminine name with a rich history dating back to ancient times. Its Latin roots give it a classic feel while its more modern usage adds a touch of contemporary charm.
The popularity of the name Deanna has seen significant fluctuations over time, with a dramatic increase starting in the late 1930s and peaking in the mid-1960s. Between 1937 and 1968, the number of annual births with the name Deanna ranged from approximately 2,000 to over 4,000, with a peak of 4,331 births in 1970. However, since the late 1970s, there has been a steady decline in its usage, with fewer than 100 births per year occurring since 2016. As of 2023, only 95 babies were named Deanna at birth.