'Annie' originates from English as a diminutive form of the name 'Anne', which comes from Latin 'Anna', ultimately from Hebrew 'Channah' where the root meant 'grace' or 'favor'.

'Annie' developed as a pet form of Middle English 'Anne'/'Anna' (borrowed from Old French and Latin), with the diminutive suffix -ie/-y producing 'Annie'; over time it became established as an independent given name and proper noun.

Initially it meant 'diminutive or pet form of Anne/Anna', but over time it has come to be used both as an independent personal name and as a cultural title (e.g., the musical).