'anita' originates from Spanish, specifically as the diminutive of the name 'Ana', where the root ultimately traces back to Hebrew 'Channah' meaning 'grace' or 'favor'.

'anita' developed as a diminutive form of Spanish 'Ana' (from Latin 'Anna'), which in turn comes from Hebrew 'Channah'. Over time the diminutive form 'Anita' became established as an independent given name in several languages.

Initially, it indicated a small or affectionate form of 'Ana' ('little Ana'), but over time it has come to be used simply as an independent female given name associated with the meaning 'grace'.