Hannah

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A given name commonly used for females, often associated with qualities such as grace and favor
2. A biblical figure known for her prayer and dedication, mother of the prophet Samuel
3. A name that has various cultural interpretations and is sometimes viewed as a representation of beauty and kindness

Etymology: Hannah is the Hebrew name Ḥannâ, borne by the mother of the prophet Samuel in the Hebrew Bible, and its meaning comes from the Hebrew word for "grace" or "gracious," with the sense of being "graced with child." That biblical link explains much of the name's enduring appeal, since it carried a story of answered prayer long before it became a popular given name in English-speaking countries. The name reached English through a long chain of translations and adaptations. It is a doublet of Ann, Anne, Anna, and Ana, meaning these forms are all descended from the same Hebrew original but reached different languages along different routes. Earlier romanizations of the Hebrew name in European languages produced the varied spellings that eventually settled into the familiar English form. One of the name's more unusual uses belongs to Hannah Snell (1723–1792), a British woman who disguised herself as a man to serve in the military. Her story gave the name a second, unexpected association with courage and adventure, and it is recorded that a Wren with the Royal Marines was named after her.

Synonyms: Hannah (proper name)