Rosanna is a feminine given name of Italian origin. It is derived from the Italian word "roso," which means "rose." Therefore, Rosanna literally translates to "little rose."
The name Rosanna has been popular among Italians for centuries and has since gained international recognition. In Italy, it was often used in the Middle Ages as a diminutive of Rosa or Rose, which were also popular names at that time.
Historically, Rosanna was brought into prominence by several notable figures throughout history. One such figure is Rosanna Pampanini, an Italian actress who became famous for her role as "La Gioconda" in the 19th century. Additionally, there have been several saints named Rosanna, including Saint Rosanna of Verona, a martyr from the 4th century.
While Rosanna has not been as popular internationally as other rose-inspired names like Rose or Rosie, it still holds significant cultural importance in Italy and among Italian communities worldwide. It is often chosen by parents who wish to give their daughter a unique yet meaningful name with deep historical roots.
Rosanna is a name that has seen a varied history of popularity over the past century and a half in the United States. The name first appeared in the Social Security Administration's (SSA) records in 1880, with a modest seven births recorded that year.
Throughout the late 19th century, Rosanna remained relatively uncommon, with fewer than 25 births per year until 1906 when there were 31 births. The early 20th century saw a gradual increase in popularity for the name, reaching a peak of 97 births in 1920.
The 1940s and 1950s marked a significant decline in Rosanna's popularity, with fewer than 60 births per year throughout most of these decades. However, the late 1950s saw another resurgence, with 200 births recorded in 1956.
The 1970s and early 1980s were a period of great popularity for Rosanna. In 1982, there were an impressive 492 births, making it the most popular year for the name since records began. This high level of popularity continued through the mid-1980s, with over 350 births each year from 1982 to 1986.
However, after this period, Rosanna's popularity declined rapidly once again. Between 1987 and 1994, there were fewer than 150 births per year for the name. The late 1990s and early 2000s saw a slight recovery in popularity, with around 60 to 90 births per year.
In recent years, Rosanna has remained relatively uncommon, with fewer than 70 births recorded each year since 2011. Despite this decline in popularity, the name remains a classic choice for parents looking for something distinctive and memorable.
Overall, while Rosanna has seen periods of great popularity throughout its history, it has generally remained a niche name, favored by parents seeking something unique for their daughters. With over 14,488 babies named Rosanna since records began in the United States, there is certainly a place for this charming and distinctive name in American naming culture.