Lana

/LAH-nah/

Slavic

Lana is a Slavic baby name pronounced /LAH-nah/. The name Lana is a gentle name often interpreted as meaning 'shining' or 'light'.

Meaning of Lana

The name Lana is a gentle name often interpreted as meaning 'shining' or 'light'.

The name is frequently considered a shortened form of Alana or Svetlana. In Slavic languages, it is linked to the word for 'wool' or 'fine linen,' while in Gaelic contexts, it is a diminutive of Alana, meaning 'precious' or 'child'. It gained significant international popularity in the 20th century due to Hollywood influence.

Origin
Slavic
Pronunciation
/LAH-nah/

Cultural background

Lana is widely used across the English-speaking world, Europe, and the Balkans. It is currently appreciated as a short, elegant, and cross-culturally accessible name.

Variations & nicknames

  • Alana
  • Lanna
  • Lannah
  • Lani
  • Laney
  • Lanae

Famous people named Lana

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Lana Turner

    Iconic American film actress and pin-up model

    Film · 20th Century

  • Lana Del Rey

    Critically acclaimed American singer-songwriter

    Music · 21st Century

  • Lana Wachowski

    Co-director of The Matrix franchise

    Film · 21st Century

  • Lana Wood

    American actress and producer, known for Bond films

    Film · 20th Century

  • Lana Lang

    Prominent fictional character in the Superman comics

    Literature · Modern

  • Lana Rhoades

    Well-known internet personality and former actress

    Entertainment · 21st Century

Frequently asked about Lana

Is Lana a nickname for another name?
Yes, it is often used as a diminutive for Alana, Svetlana, or Milana, but it is also a standalone name.
What does Lana mean in Hawaiian?
In Hawaiian, the word 'lana' means 'afloat' or 'calm as still water'.
Is the name Lana popular?
Lana is a consistently popular choice in many countries, including the United States, France, and Croatia.

Love Lana? Get more names like it

We'll email you 5 fresh Slavic names each week — free, no spam.

Compare Lana with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Slavic names

See all Slavic names
Find more names like Lana