Pollyanne is a name of French origin, derived from the word 'poli,' meaning 'polished' or 'refined.' It was popularized through the character Pollyanna, created by American author Eleanor H. Porter in her 1913 novel "Pollyanna." The story follows the optimistic and cheerful orphan Pollyanna Whittier, who always manages to find something positive in any situation, giving rise to the phrase "to look on the bright side of things" or "to be a Pollyanna." The name has since been associated with positivity and optimism.
"Despite fluctuations over time, Pollyanne remains a relatively uncommon name, with only 22 births recorded between 1962 and 1971."