Meaning, origin, history
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.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Roxanna since 1880
Total births
13,350
Total since 1880
Peak year
1988
316 births
in 2023
58
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-13%
↘
vs previous 5 years