← All names

Anya

Girl name · 658 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Anya: 658 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 46 births in 2006.

Anya is a name of Russian origin, derived as a diminutive of Anna, which itself traces back to the Hebrew Hannah, meaning "grace" or "favour." Carried into English-speaking popularity through literature and film, it has become a beloved choice in Scotland and beyond. Notable bearers include Anya Taylor-Joy, the award-winning actress known for *The Queen’s Gambit*, and Anya Seton, the bestselling historical novelist whose works include *Katherine*. While no major place shares the exact name, the root Anna appears in many locations, such as Santa Ana. A charming variant is Anja, common in Scandinavian countries. In Scotland, Anya has risen steadily since the 1990s, appreciated for its melodic simplicity and cross-cultural appeal.