Find out how popular the first name Svana has been for the last 12 years (from 2012 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Svana by gender

Based on the last 12 years of data, Svana is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Svana.

The history of the first name Svana

The name Svana has its origins in the Old Norse language, which was spoken by the Scandinavian peoples during the Viking Age, roughly between the 8th and 11th centuries AD. It is derived from the Old Norse word "svanr," meaning "swan." The name is believed to have been inspired by the graceful and majestic appearance of these birds, which were revered in Norse mythology.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Svana can be found in the Icelandic Sagas, a collection of stories and historical accounts from the 13th and 14th centuries. These sagas often featured characters with names related to nature, reflecting the close connection between the Norse people and their environment.

In the Saga of the Greenlanders, written around 1200 AD, there is a character named Svana Þórðardóttir, who was the daughter of a wealthy landowner in Iceland. This provides evidence of the name's use during the medieval period in Scandinavia.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Svana. One of the earliest was Svana Illugadóttir (1218-1300), an influential Icelandic chieftain and landowner who played a significant role in the island's politics during the Age of the Sturlungs.

Another prominent figure was Svana Þorsteinsdóttir (1530-1610), a wealthy Icelandic landowner and one of the last Catholic women in the country before the Protestant Reformation took hold. Her estate, Svanastaðir, was named after her, and she was known for her generosity and support of the Church.

In more recent times, Svana Ingólfsdóttir (1942-2021) was an Icelandic author and translator, renowned for her work in children's literature and her translations of books from English and other languages into Icelandic.

Svana Lam (born 1975) is a Danish artist and sculptor, known for her large-scale installations and public artworks. Her work often explores themes of nature, identity, and the human condition.

Svana Gandrup (born 1979) is a Danish chef and restaurateur, who has gained recognition for her innovative approach to Nordic cuisine and her commitment to sustainability and locally sourced ingredients.

While the name Svana is undoubtedly rooted in the Nordic languages and cultures, its beauty and unique meaning have transcended geographical boundaries, making it a popular choice for parents around the world who appreciate its historical significance and connection to nature.

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 Svana was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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