Origin and Meaning of Anitra

Gracious, merciful

Origin: Scandinavian - Anitra is derived from the name Anit, which is believed to be a variant of the Hebrew name Anna, meaning 'gracious' or 'merciful'.

• Anitra gained popularity in the English-speaking world through the play 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' by William Shakespeare, where it is famously associated with the character Anitra's Dance, a harp piece composed by Edvard Grieg.
• The name is primarily used in Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden, and has seen adoption in other regions, including the United States.
• Notable figures with this name include Anitra Ford, a television actress and model known for her role on 'The Price Is Right' during the 1970s.
• Anitra has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the mid-20th century and gradually declining in the following decades.
• Variations and similar names include Anita, Anouk, and Annette, all of which share a similar graceful connotation.