Svetlana is a female given name of Slavic origin, specifically from Russia and other Slavic countries. The name comes from the word "svet" which means "light", and "lana" which means "feminine form". Therefore, Svetlana translates to "Radiant" or "Shining One".
The name Svetlana has a rich history in Slavic cultures. It was particularly popular during the medieval period in Eastern Europe where it was often used as an affectionate nickname for women who were believed to embody radiance and beauty.
In Russian culture, Svetlana is also associated with the story of Princess Světlana, a legendary figure who played a significant role in Czech mythology and folklore. According to these tales, she was the daughter of the mythical King Libuše, known for her wisdom and fairness.
Today, Svetlana continues to be popular among Slavic communities worldwide, carrying with it the heritage of light, radiance, and beauty that has been associated with it throughout history.
The name Svetlana experienced varying popularity over time. It peaked in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with particularly high numbers of births recorded in 1995 (21), 1996 (21), and 2002 (31). However, it fell out of favor somewhat after that period, with fewer than 30 births per year from 2004 onwards. Despite this decline in popularity, the name Svetlana has still been given to a total of 887 babies over these years combined.