Lana is a chameleon of a name, managing to feel both incredibly vintage and strikingly modern all at once. It carries the “Old Hollywood” glamour of the mid-20th century, evoking images of velvet ropes and silver screens, yet it fits perfectly into the current trend of short, vowel-heavy names like Luna and Isla. It is soft but not fragile; elegant but not pretentious.
The name boasts a fascinating duality in meaning depending on where you look on the map. It balances the solidity of the Irish “little rock” with the ethereal quality of the Slavic “light” or “shining.” This gives the name a beautiful grounding energy mixed with a bright, hopeful spirit.
Verdict: Lana is an exceptional choice for a baby born in 2025. It offers the “sweet spot” of being instantly recognizable and easy to spell without being overused. It is a timeless classic that has shed its “grandma” image to become a chic, cosmopolitan choice for a modern girl.
Lana Overview
- Meaning: The name Lana has a variety of meanings and origins. In Irish, it means “little rock,” while in Hawaii it can mean “calm as still waters” or “afloat.” Greek, German, and Slavic languages usually translate Lana as “sunlight”, “light”, “shining”, “luminescent”, “pure”, “blessed”, or “holy.”
- Gender: Lana is typically a female name.
- Origin: Slavic and Greek.
- Pronunciation: “LAW-nuh.”
- Popularity: The name “Lana” is prominent in English-speaking and Slavic countries. In the United States, Lana has surged in popularity and ranked 374th for newborn girls in 2021.
- Nicknames: Ana, La, Lala, Lana Banana, Lananas, Lonny, Sveta.
- Variations: Alana, Elana, Leanbh, Shweta, Svetlana, Světlana, Svitlana, Sviatlana, Svjetlana, Świetlana.
- Namesakes: Lana Del Rey, Lana Turner, and Lana Wachowski.
What Does the Name Lana Mean?
The beauty of the name Lana lies in its multicultural tapestry. It is a true “citizen of the world” name, offering a different beautiful meaning depending on which linguistic lens you view it through.
In Irish and Gaelic traditions, it is often linked to the name Alana, carrying the meaning “little rock” or “harmony.” This suggests a person who is a grounding force, steady, reliable, and strong. Conversely, in Hawaiian culture, Lana translates to “calm as still waters” or “afloat” (1), evoking a sense of serenity and buoyancy.
However, its most profound etymology comes from its connection to the name Svetlana. In Germanic, Greek, and Orthodox Slavic countries, Lana carries the radiant meaning of “sunlight”, “light”, “shining”, “luminescent”, “pure”, “blessed”, or “holy” (2). This interpretation frames the child as a beacon of joy and warmth.
Where Does the Name Lana Come From?
Like its meanings, “Lana” has many origins, acting as a bridge between Western and Eastern European naming traditions.
In Orthodox Slavic nations and Greece, the name has deep biblical ties, though not directly through the name “Lana” itself. It is the diminutive of Svetlana, which is the Russian translation of the Greek name Photina. Photina is the name traditionally attributed to the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well in the Gospel of John (the woman who meets Jesus). Therefore, while you won’t find “Lana” printed in the King James Bible, its roots are deeply intertwined with this New Testament figure of “illumination.”
In a literary context, Russian poet Vasily Zhukovsky helped cement the name’s status in the 19th Century with his ballad “Svetlana,” making the shortened version, Lana, a fashionable option for centuries to come.
How Popular is the Name Lana?
The name “Lana” is a global favorite, finding homes in English-speaking countries as well as Bosnia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, Slovenia, and Croatia. In fact, in Croatia, it has frequently held the title of the number one choice for baby girls, proving its enduring power in Slavic regions.
In the United States, Lana is enjoying a significant renaissance. It is a “U-shaped” popularity curve; it was a hit in the 1940s and 50s during the height of Lana Turner’s fame, then dipped into obscurity during the 80s and 90s.
However, as parents began seeking vintage alternatives to names like “Lisa” or “Laura,” Lana began to climb again. At the turn of the 21st Century, the name was barely in the top 1000. It broke into the top 500 in 2003 and sits comfortably as a moderately popular choice today, ranking 374th in 2021 (3). It is familiar, but not ubiquitous, a perfect “Goldilocks” zone for popularity.
Its modern resurgence is widely attributed to the atmospheric singer Lana Del Rey, who reintroduced the name to a younger generation as something edgy, artistic, and cool.
How Do I Pronounce Lana?
The most common pronunciation in North America is “LAW-nuh” (rhyming with “fauna” or “sauna”).
In some accents, or when used as a short form for Alana, it may be pronounced “LAN-uh” (rhyming with “Hannah” or “bananas”). Both are accepted, though “LAW-nuh” is generally the default assumption for the standalone name.
Is Lana a Boy or Girl Name?
Lana is a name strictly given to girls. You would likely not run into a male with the name, and it has never been recorded in the top 1000 for newborn boys by the Social Security Administration. Its vowel-ending structure and “soft” meaning firmly place it in the feminine naming tradition.
Variations of Lana
In its standalone form, the name has few variations because it is already a minimalist gem. Yet, as a diminutive, it connects to many longer names across the world. Here are the linguistic roots you can trace it back to:
- Alana (Irish/Hawaiian)
- Elana (Hebrew/Greek)
- Leanbh (Gaelic term of endearment)
- Shweta (Sanskrit – meaning “White/Bright”)
- Svetlana (Russian/Slavic)
- Světlana (Czech)
- Svitlana (Ukrainian)
- Sviatlana (Belarusian)
- Svjetlana (Serbo-Croatian)
- Świetlana (Polish)
- Milana (Italian/Slavic)
Nicknames for Lana
Lana is short, sweet, and complete, so it doesn’t require a nickname. However, affectionate diminutives are always fun for family use. Beyond the standard “La,” here are some creative options:
- Ana
- La
- Lala (Playful and rhythmic)
- Lana Banana (The classic rhyming teaser)
- Lananas
- Lonny (A vintage tomboy spin)
- Sveta (If using as a short form of Svetlana)
- Lanny
- Na-Na
Names Similar to Lana
If you love the vibe of Lana, short, ending in ‘a’, and slightly retro, but want to explore other avenues, consider these names with a similar “mouthfeel” or style:
- Lara: Very similar in sound but with a slightly more Russian/literary flair (think Dr. Zhivago).
- Luna: Shares the “L” and “uh” sounds but with a celestial meaning.
- Lena: A bit softer and more Scandinavian in feel than the glamorous Lana.
- Mila: Another Slavic favorite that has become an American hit.
- Zara: Shares the short, punchy, international vibe.
- Cora: A vintage name that shares the same weight and length.
- Veda: For something with a similar spiritual or “light” connection.
- Isla: A vowel-heavy favorite.
- Mara: A strong, biblical alternative.
- Thea: Short, Greek origin, and means “goddess.”
Middle Names for Lana
Because Lana is a two-syllable name with a heavy vowel sound, it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of middle names. To help you choose, we have categorized them by “style.”
Classic & Timeless
These names anchor Lana in history and elegance:
Nature-Inspired & Soft
Play up the “Little Rock” or “Light” meaning with these earthy choices:
Modern & Spunky
Give the vintage first name a modern twist:
Sibling Names for Lana
Reflecting its extensive history and popularity, there are endless names that go well alongside Lana. You generally want a name that bridges the gap between the 1950s and the 2020s.
For a Brother
- Anthony
- Dean (Matches the “Cool” factor)
- George
- Julian
- Leo (Short and punchy)
- Roman
- Patrick
- Sam
- Zane
For a Sister
Famous People Named Lana
There are many famous actresses, politicians, athletes, and directors with the name Lana. It is a name that seems to attract the spotlight.
- Lana Turner: The quintessential Hollywood starlet of the 1940s and 50s. She is often credited with originally popularizing the name in the US.
- Lana Del Rey: Born Elizabeth Woolridge Grant, this American singer-songwriter adopted the moniker to match her cinematic, melancholic pop style.
- Lana Wachowski: A visionary American film director noted for her work on “The Matrix” trilogy and “Sense8.”
- Lana Condor: A modern American actress best known for her role in the “To All the Boys” film series.
- Lana: The mononym of C.J. Perry, an American professional wrestler and manager in the WWE.
- Lana Clarkson: American actress and model best known for her fantasy movie roles.
Lana in Popular Culture
Lana has also spread widely through popular culture, often given to characters who are attractive, popular, or enigmatic.
- Lana Lang: Perhaps the most famous fictional Lana, she is the high school sweetheart of Clark Kent (Superman) in DC Comics and the television series “Smallville.”
- Lana Kane: The capable, intelligent, and strong female lead in the animated spy comedy series “Archer.”
- Lana Winters: A gritty, determined journalist and recurring character in the television series “American Horror Story,” played by actress Sarah Paulson.
- Lana Lazar: A character from the “Gone” novels.
- Lana Herman: A character in the television program “The Cosby Show.”
- Lana: The “dream girl” character in the classic 80s film “Risky Business.”
FAQs About the Name Lana
Now, let’s look at some of the most frequently asked questions about “Lana.”
What Does Lana Mean in French?
In France, “Lana” is a girl’s name that is often associated with the Old French “laine” (wool) or “lane” (a narrow path), but contemporary French parents typically choose it for its Slavic “light” meaning or simply because it sounds “attractive” and “fair.”
Is Lana Considered a Beautiful Name?
Lana is widely considered a beautiful, sophisticated name. It alludes to a specific glamour and time period. It easily rolls off the tongue and is never overused. The name Lana also makes one think of springtime and floral patterns while maintaining a sense of strength.
What Is Lana’s Significance as a Name in Arabic?
The name “Lana” is also popular in Muslim communities and cultures. In Arabic, it is derived from the word “Liin,” meaning “gentle,” “soft,” “tender,” or “pliable,” representing a person with a kind and adaptable heart.
Is Lana Short for Something Else?
While Lana works perfectly as a standalone name, it is historically a short form (diminutive) of longer names. The most common is the Slavic name Svetlana. However, it can also be a nickname for Alana, Milana, Yelena, or even Jolana.
Is the Name Lana Dated?
Not anymore. While Lana was associated with the 1940s and 50s for a long time, it has successfully shed its “dated” label. It is now considered a “vintage revival” or “modern classic,” similar to names like Vera, Hazel, and Ruby, which have become stylish again for babies born in 2025.
What Is the Spiritual Meaning of Lana?
Through its connection to St. Photina (Svetlana), the spiritual meaning of Lana is “illumination” or “bringer of light.” It represents a person who brings clarity, truth, and warmth into the lives of others, acting as a spiritual beacon.
Are There Different Ways to Spell Lana?
Yes, though “Lana” is the most standard spelling. Parents looking for a unique twist might spell it Lanna (to emphasize a short ‘a’ sound), Lahna, or Lanah. However, the four-letter variation is by far the most recognized and intuitive.
What Names Rhyme With Lana?
If you are looking for a rhyming sibling set or just enjoy the sound, names that rhyme with the “LAW-nuh” pronunciation include Alana, Shawna, Dawna, and Fawna. If you pronounce it “LAN-uh,” it rhymes with Hannah, Savannah, and Anna.
