Anne

Anne is the French and English form of the Latin Anna, itself derived from the Hebrew name Channah, meaning grace or favor. The name gained widespread use across medieval Europe largely through veneration of Saint Anne, traditionally held to be the mother of the Virgin Mary, though she is not named in the canonical Gospels. Its popularity was further reinforced by numerous queens and noblewomen who bore the name, including Anne Boleyn and Anne of Austria. Closely related forms include Anna, Ann, Hannah, Ana, and Annette.