Rana Unisex
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: RAH-nah //ˈrɑː.nə//
Origin: Arabic; Hebrew
Meaning: Arabic: 'eye-catching'; Hebrew: 'joyful'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Rana has its roots in Arabic, where it is derived from the verb "rana," meaning "to gaze" or "to look at." This etymology reflects a sense of beauty and admiration, which is often associated with the name. The name has also been linked to the Arabic word "ranā," which translates to "eye-catching" or "delightful," further emphasizing its aesthetic connotations.
The transition of the name into English and other languages typically occurred through cultural exchanges, particularly during periods of trade and the spread of Islamic culture from the 7th century onward. Historically, the name Rana has been borne by various notable figures in the Islamic world, including rulers and scholars.
In South Asia, the name gained prominence during the Mughal Empire, where it was used among noble families. The name is also associated with several historical figures in literature and folklore, contributing to its cultural significance.
In the 20th century, the name appeared in various literary works and media, which helped to further solidify its presence in diverse cultures. Culturally, Rana is often associated with qualities such as grace and beauty, making it a favored choice in many Arabic-speaking and South Asian communities.
The name has also been embraced in various forms, with diminutives like Rani, which means "queen" in Hindi and is often used affectionately. This connection to royalty and beauty enhances the name's appeal and resonance across different cultures, allowing it to endure through generations.
Famous people named Rana
Rana Daggubati is an actor and producer best known for Baahubali: The Beginning, Baahubali: The Conclusion, and Leader.
Rana Naidu is a fictional character best known as the lead in the Netflix series Rana Naidu.
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Rana was first seen in the United States in 1942.
Rana has ranked as high as #1002 nationally, which occurred in 1971, and has been most popular in California, New York, Illinois, Texas, and Michigan.
In the past 5 years the name Rana has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Rana (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 7 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1942 | 6 |
| 1943 | 9 |
| 1944 | 5 |
| 1945 | 8 |
| 1946 | 13 |
| 1947 | 9 |
| 1948 | 20 |
| 1949 | 14 |
| 1950 | 11 |
| 1951 | 17 |
| 1952 | 23 |
| 1953 | 11 |
| 1954 | 25 |
| 1955 | 15 |
| 1956 | 16 |
| 1957 | 10 |
| 1958 | 23 |
| 1959 | 18 |
| 1960 | 21 |
| 1961 | 28 |
| 1962 | 31 |
| 1963 | 45 |
| 1964 | 43 |
| 1965 | 41 |
| 1966 | 37 |
| 1967 | 50 |
| 1968 | 60 |
| 1969 | 76 |
| 1970 | 101 |
| 1971 | 120 |
| 1972 | 91 |
| 1973 | 96 |
| 1974 | 95 |
| 1975 | 114 |
| 1976 | 113 |
| 1977 | 111 |
| 1978 | 103 |
| 1979 | 92 |
| 1980 | 84 |
| 1981 | 87 |
| 1982 | 73 |
| 1983 | 67 |
| 1984 | 70 |
| 1985 | 67 |
| 1986 | 60 |
| 1987 | 83 |
| 1988 | 78 |
| 1989 | 76 |
| 1990 | 81 |
| 1991 | 72 |
| 1992 | 62 |
| 1993 | 43 |
| 1994 | 70 |
| 1995 | 61 |
| 1996 | 68 |
| 1997 | 64 |
| 1998 | 69 |
| 1999 | 68 |
| 2000 | 65 |
| 2001 | 69 |
| 2002 | 55 |
| 2003 | 71 |
| 2004 | 59 |
| 2005 | 65 |
| 2006 | 47 |
| 2007 | 49 |
| 2008 | 67 |
| 2009 | 49 |
| 2010 | 50 |
| 2011 | 46 |
| 2012 | 55 |
| 2013 | 55 |
| 2014 | 52 |
| 2015 | 46 |
| 2016 | 63 |
| 2017 | 44 |
| 2018 | 56 |
| 2019 | 59 |
| 2020 | 51 |
| 2021 | 50 |
| 2022 | 67 |
| 2023 | 48 |
| 2024 | 41 |