Nancy

“Grace” or “favour” through Ann/Anne; an older proposed link to Agnes brings “pure”.

Nancy developed in English as a familiar form and is now a name in its own right. Its usual association with “grace” or “favour” comes through Ann or Anne and, further back, the Hebrew name Hannah. It is an inherited name meaning, rather than a literal English word. An older explanation traces Nancy to Ancy and Annis, a medieval form of Agnes. That probable connection accounts for the separate meaning “pure” sometimes attached to Nancy. The two meanings reflect different strands in its history. In English, /ˈnæn.si/ gives Nancy a crisp beginning and a light, clear ending. Compared with Anne, it has more bounce and a more conversational feel; it may suit a preference for a friendly-sounding full name that does not feel elaborate.

Etymology: An English familiar form, probably first linked to Annis, a form of Agnes, and later to Ann or Anne. Nancy is also used independently.