Wished-for child and grace
A combination of the names Polly and Anna. Polly is a medieval variant of Molly (meaning 'wished-for child'), while Anna is a Hebrew name meaning 'grace.' It is most famous for the 1913 novel by Eleanor H. Porter, where the character's name became synonymous with irrepressible optimism.
About 19 girls were named Pollyanna in 2025.
The optimistic protagonist of the eponymous novel · Pollyanna
Scottish-American actress known for The Walking Dead
British television presenter
British wildlife artist and environmentalist
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
