Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Fanny

      Origin 
      American

      Meaning 
      Free

      Variations 
      Danny, Fancy, Fenny

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Fanny originates from the United States of America and derives from the Latin word fannius, which means free. In ancient times, the name was often bestowed upon those who possessed a free spirit or displayed independence. Its popularity grew during the 18th and 19th centuries when it became a common given name in American households.

      In history, the name Fanny was notably associated with the famous suffragette Fanny Wright, who campaigned passionately for women's rights and social reforms during the 19th century. Her advocacy and dedication further propelled the name's prominence in American history. Moreover, Fanny was also prevalent in literature, appearing as the name of various strong and independent female characters, including in the works of Jane Austen and Louisa May Alcott.

      In modern times, the usage of the name Fanny has somewhat declined, partly due to cultural shifts and evolving naming trends. However, it still retains a place in certain families and communities where tradition is highly valued. Additionally, it may also be used as a nickname for Frances or other names beginning with F. Today, Fanny is often seen as an affectionate and vintage name choice, evoking a sense of individuality and freedom.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Fanny.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Fanny.

      William

      is the most common spouse name for Fanny.

      William

      is the most common child name for Fanny.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1860 is when there were the most people born with the first name Fanny.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.