Lana

Light, or calm as still water — a girl name of Slavic, Hawaiian origin

GenderGirl
MeaningLight, or calm as still water
PronunciationLAH-nuh

Popularity of Lana in the United States

#406Rank in 2025
768Births in 2025
#188 in 1948Peak Popularity
→ Stable10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Lana

Lana has multiple rich origins. In Slavic languages it began as a short form of Svetlana, meaning "light," while in Hawaiian it means "to float" or "calm," evoking peaceful, serene imagery. The name reached international fame through Hollywood actress Lana Turner, born Julia Jean Turner, who adopted it as her glamorous stage name in the 1930s. Its clean, two-syllable elegance has kept it a timeless choice across generations and cultures.

Lana Around the World

Lana is used in 3 languages worldwide, with 11+ international variants.

Languages
DutchSloveneLatvian
Details

Male FormLan

International Variants
AnaSpanish
LenaGerman
EllinaHungarian
LianaItalian
AlanaPolish
Lani
LannaEnglish
Elana
SvetlanaSlovene
Ilana
OlanaSerbian

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Lana

LanLala

Famous People Named Lana

  • Lana Turner — American film actress and Hollywood icon
  • Lana Del Rey — American singer-songwriter
  • Lana Condor — American actress known for To All the Boys I've Loved Before

Similar Names to Lana

If you like Lana, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.

Also consider:Dana

Sibling Name Ideas for Lana

Looking for names that pair well with Lana? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Lana mean?

Lana is a girl name of Slavic, Hawaiian origin meaning "Light, or calm as still water." Lana has multiple rich origins. In Slavic languages it began as a short form of Svetlana, meaning "light," while in Hawaiian it means "to float" or "calm," evoking peaceful, serene imagery.

How do you pronounce Lana?

Lana is pronounced LAH-nuh. Common variations include Lanna, Lanae, Svetlana.

Is Lana a girl name?

Yes, Lana is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Lan, Lala.

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