Annie is a name of Hebrew origin, meaning "grace" or "favor." It is derived from the Hebrew word "Channah," which also gives us the name Hannah.
The name Annie has a rich history dating back to biblical times. In the Old Testament, Hannah was the mother of Samuel, who became one of the last judges of Israel and the prophet who anointed King David. This story highlights the significance of faith and perseverance in the meaning behind the name Annie.
In literature, Annie also makes an appearance as the protagonist in "Annie" by Thomas Mee, a novel about a young girl's coming-of-age journey during the Industrial Revolution. This character further enriches the name's history and cultural significance.
Over time, Annie has evolved into a popular given name, often used independently or as a shortened form of names like Anne or Anna. Its simplicity and timelessness have contributed to its enduring popularity across generations and cultures.
Overall, Annie is a name with deep roots in history and religion, carrying connotations of grace, favor, faith, and perseverance. Its diverse usage and cultural relevance make it a well-loved choice for parents seeking a meaningful and timeless name for their child.
The name Annie was quite popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s, peaking between 1915 to 1925 with over 7000 births each year. However, its popularity declined significantly throughout the mid-20th century, dropping below 1000 births per year by the late 1960s. There was a slight resurgence in the late 1970s and early 1980s, but it has remained relatively steady with fewer than 1000 births per year since then. In recent years, Annie has seen a minor increase in popularity again, reaching over 1300 births in 2021 and 2022.