Ania

Ania is a Polish and Russian diminutive form of Anna, itself derived from the Hebrew name Channah, meaning grace or favour. It developed as an affectionate short form widely used in everyday speech across Poland and Russia, where Anna has been a common name for centuries owing in part to its association with Saint Anne, the traditional mother of the Virgin Mary. Related forms include Anya, Annija, and Annia, as well as the full form Anna found throughout European naming traditions.