Roxanna is a feminine given name of Persian origin. It is derived from the Persian name Rohhina, which means "dawn" or "light". The name Roxanna is associated with Roxana, a Bactrian wife of Alexander the Great who played a significant role in his empire after his death.
The name Roxanna gained popularity in Europe during the Renaissance through the story of Alexander the Great and his wife Roxana. In William Shakespeare's play "Alexander the Great", Roxana is portrayed as a strong-willed and intelligent woman who becomes Alexander's wife and eventually gives birth to their son, Alexander IV.
Throughout history, several notable women have been named Roxanna or variations of the name such as Roxane or Rokhsana. One famous example is Roxana, the wife of the last King of Scotland, James V.
Overall, the name Roxanna has a rich historical background and carries a meaning that signifies light and dawn, making it a popular choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their daughter.
The name Roxanna has been quite popular among parents in the United States over the past century and a half. Between 1880 and 2023, there have been a total of 13,350 babies born with this name.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Roxanna's popularity was relatively low, with fewer than 10 births per year. However, in the 1930s, its popularity began to increase significantly. In 1936, there were 49 births, marking a turning point for this name.
The highest number of births recorded for Roxanna was in 1987, with an impressive 301 newborns sharing this name. This peak in popularity was short-lived, as the number of births decreased significantly in the following years.
Between 1992 and 2023, the popularity of Roxanna has fluctuated, with some years seeing fewer than 50 births. For example, there were only 66 births in 2020 and 58 in both 2021 and 2023.
Despite these fluctuations, Roxanna remains a recognizable name with a rich history of use in the United States. Its popularity over time reflects the changing tastes and preferences of parents when it comes to naming their children.