Susana is a Spanish and Portuguese form of the name Susanna. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew word שׁוֹשָׁן (shoshan), meaning "lily" or "rose", itself possibly from Egyptian sšn (lotus).EtymologyThe Hebrew name Shoshanna enters Greek as Σουσάννα (Sousanna) and spreads through biblical traditions. Susana is the adaptation used in the Iberian Peninsula, prevailing in both Spain and Portugal as a standard given name.Cultural and Religious SignificanceIn the Old Testament Apocrypha, a woman named Susanna is falsely accused of adultery and saved by the prophet Daniel. This story elevated the name among Christians. In the New Testament, a Susanna is named as one of the women supporting Jesus (Luke 8:3).In medieval Europe, religious houses and families used the name in tribute, though widespread popularity came only after the Protestant Reformation, particularly for the English form Susan. In the Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking world, Susana maintained steady regional acceptance.Related FormsVariants of Susana appear across many languages. The Portuguese variant Suzana is common in Brazil. Spanish uses the diminutive Susanita. Wider cultural cousins include Sawsan (Arabic), Shushan (Armenian), and Zuzanna (Polish).Notable BearersSusana Chávez (1974-2011), Mexican poet and human rights activist.Susana Calandrelli (1901-1978), Argentine writer and teacher.Key FactsMeaning: Lily (or rose)Origin: Hebrew, via Greek and LatinType: given name (feminine)Usage: Spanish, Portuguese