Find out how popular the first name Anja has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Anja by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Anja is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 51 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Anja.

The history of the first name Anja

The name Anja has its origins in the Sanskrit language and is derived from the word "anaya," meaning "grace" or "favor." It is a feminine name that has been used across various cultures and regions, particularly in Eastern Europe and Scandinavia.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Anja can be traced back to ancient Hindu texts and scriptures, where it was used to refer to goddesses and divine feminine entities associated with beauty, grace, and prosperity. It is believed that the name gained popularity in parts of Eastern Europe and Russia due to the influence of Sanskrit-derived languages and cultural exchange along trade routes.

In the medieval period, the name Anja was commonly used in parts of modern-day Germany, Poland, and the Baltic regions. It was particularly popular among the nobility and aristocracy, with several noblewomen bearing the name. One notable figure was Anja von Wettin (1292-1363), a German princess and member of the House of Wettin, a prominent royal dynasty.

During the Renaissance and Enlightenment periods, the name Anja continued to be used across various parts of Europe. One notable figure was Anja Elisabet Varnhagen (1677-1736), a Swedish writer and poet who gained recognition for her literary works and contributions to the cultural landscape of her time.

In more recent history, the name Anja has been associated with several notable individuals across various fields. Anja Niedringhaus (1965-2014) was a renowned German photojournalist who worked for the Associated Press and was tragically killed while covering the war in Afghanistan. Anja Rubik (born 1983) is a Polish model and philanthropist who has graced the covers of numerous fashion magazines and has been involved in various charitable initiatives.

Anja Silja (born 1940) is a German operatic soprano who has performed on major opera stages around the world and is renowned for her interpretations of Wagner's works. Anja Fichtel (born 1966) is a German cyclist who has won multiple Olympic and World Championship medals in track cycling events.

Anja Pärson (born 1981) is a Swedish former alpine ski racer who achieved immense success on the international circuit, winning numerous World Cup titles and Olympic gold medals in her career. These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have carried the name Anja throughout history.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Anja was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Anja, please contact us.

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