Raiane

Raiane rose out of obscurity to become a Top 100 name in Brazil in both the 1990s and the 2000s, when it was given to nearly 100,000 babies collectivedly. Pronounced with three syllables, its meaning and origin are debated.

On one hand, it may be an elaboration of the Portuguese word, raio meaning "ray, beam", giving it a bright and sunny feel. On the other, it may have been influenced be influenced by the Arabic names Rayyan — meaning "watered, luxuriant" and given to one of the gates of paradise in Islamic tradition — or Rayhanna — which relates to Rihanna and means "basil".

Another possibility is that it was inspired by the rise of Ryan, which, by the 90s had begun to be used for girls in the US more frequently. Raian ranked for boys in Brazil during the same period, while Daiane (from Diane), Chaiane (from Cheyenne), Taiane (from Tiana) were stylish for girls. Taking these trends into account, it seems plausible that it the Irish name (meaning "little king") may well be the source.

A notable bearer is Raiane Lima, an influencer and the partner of footballer Gabriel Jesus.

Pronounced rah-ee-AH-nay.