Silvana

girlLatinChristian

Silvana is a Christian girl name of Latin, via Italian and Spanish origin, meaning “Of the forest”.

MeaningOf the forest
GenderGirl
OriginLatin, via Italian and Spanish
Pronunciationseel-VAH-nah
TraditionChristian, Modern & Classic
Used inItaly, Argentina, Peru, Spain

Meaning and origin of Silvana

Silvana is the feminine form of the Latin Silvanus, built on 'silva', meaning forest or woodland. Silvanus was the Roman god of woods and fields, but the name also passed into Christian use through early saints called Silvanus. Silvana is especially associated with Italy, where actress Silvana Mangano made it widely known in the mid-twentieth century, and it is also used in Spain and South America.

Is Silvana a Christian name?

Although Silvanus began as a Roman deity's name, it was borne by early Christian martyrs, and Silvana is accepted as an ordinary Catholic given name. In Acts and Paul's letters, Silas is often identified with a companion called Silvanus.

How popular is Silvana?

Familiar in Italy and South America, though it peaked decades ago.

Gifts with the name Silvana

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Spellings and variants of Silvana

SylvanaSilviaSylvaineSilvane

Names similar to Silvana

More Christian girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Silvana mean?

Silvana means 'Of the forest'. It is of Latin, via Italian and Spanish origin.

Is Silvana a Christian name?

Although Silvanus began as a Roman deity's name, it was borne by early Christian martyrs, and Silvana is accepted as an ordinary Catholic given name. In Acts and Paul's letters, Silas is often identified with a companion called Silvanus.

How do you pronounce Silvana?

Silvana is pronounced seel-VAH-nah.

Is Silvana a boy or girl name?

Silvana is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.