Nanny is a name of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse word "Nanni," which means "grace" or "favor." It is also associated with the Old Norse female personal name "Nanna," which was popular among the Vikings and was later adopted by other Northern European cultures. In Norse mythology, Nanna was the goddess of the earth and the wife of the god Baldur.
The name Nanny has a long history of use in various forms across different cultures. In addition to its Scandinavian roots, it has also been used as a pet form of the French name Anne or the German name Anna. The name Nanny has been particularly popular in Ireland, where it has been used for centuries and was traditionally given to girls born around Christmas time.
Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Nanny. In English literature, Nanny is a character in the children's book "Mary Poppins" by P.L. Travers, who serves as a no-nonsense nanny to the Banks children. In music, Nanny Finn was an Australian singer-songwriter known for her hit single "All Fall Down."
Today, Nanny remains a unique and distinctive name that carries with it a rich history and cultural heritage. It is often chosen by parents looking for a name that is different from the more traditional names but still has a timeless quality. Whether as a first name or a nickname, Nanny is a name that is sure to stand out and make an impression.
The name Nanny has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 53 babies given this name between 1886 and 1938. The highest number of births occurred in 1921, with nine newborns named Nanny. However, there were also several years where only five babies were named Nanny. Despite these fluctuations, the name has maintained a consistent presence in U.S. birth records for over half a century.