Sarah: Baby Name Meaning, Popularity, Origin, And History (2024)

Welcome to our article on the name Sarah! If you’re curious about the meaning, origin, and history of this popular name, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will delve into the significance of the name Sarah, its origins, and how it has evolved over time.

First and foremost, let’s explore the meaning of the name Sarah. Derived from Hebrew and Persian, Sarah is often translated as “princess.” However, its more literal meaning in these languages is “woman of high rank.” This name carries a sense of nobility and has been associated with women of noble status throughout history.

The name Sarah holds significant historical and biblical importance. Sarah is best known as the wife of Abraham, a central figure in the three major Abrahamic religions. In the Jewish faith, Sarah is considered the matriarch and a symbol of maternal strength. She famously gave birth to her son Isaac at the remarkable age of 90, showcasing her resilience and faith.

Now, let’s shift our focus to the popularity of the name Sarah. Throughout the 1900s, Sarah consistently ranked among the top names for girls in the United States. In 2020, it held the 87th spot on the Social Security Administration’s list. The enduring popularity of Sarah speaks to its timeless charm and enduring appeal.

While primarily used as a feminine name, it’s worth noting that there have been instances of baby boys named Sarah as well. This demonstrates the flexibility and inclusivity of name choices in modern times.

Digging deeper into the name Sarah’s history, let’s explore its variations in different languages and cultures. Some variations of Sarah include Hara (Maori), Saara (Finnish), Sara (English), Sára (Eastern European), and Zara (Arabic, Hebrew). These variations depict the diverse influence and adaptability of the name across different regions.

Now that you have a better understanding of the meaning, origin, and history of the name Sarah, let’s continue our exploration in the following sections. We will delve deeper into its etymology, popularity over time, and famous individuals who bear this cherished name.

Meaning and Origin of The Name Sarah

The name Sarah has a Hebrew origin and means “princess.” It originated from the Hebrew word “sarah” and is associated with women of noble rank. In the Bible, Sarah was originally called Sarai but had her name changed by God to Sarah when she was ninety years old, signifying her importance and status.

Popularity of The Name Sarah

The name Sarah has been consistently popular in the United States. It ranked as high as number 3, 4, and 5 during the 1980s and 1990s, according to data from the Social Security Administration. Since records have been kept, it has never dipped below number 120 in popularity. In 2020, it was listed as number 87 for girls. While primarily used as a name for girls, there have been instances of boys named Sarah, with the highest rank among boys being 823 in 1989.

Variations and Famous Sarahs

The name Sarah has a rich history and is widely used across different cultures. In various languages, you can find interesting variations of the name, such as Hara in Maori, Kala in Hawaiian, Saara in Finnish, Sara in English, and Sára in Eastern European cultures. Other variations include Sarai in Biblical Hebrew, Sarrha in Biblical Greek, Sassa in Swedish, Sorcha in Irish, Suri in Yiddish, and Zara in Arabic and Hebrew.

Throughout history and in modern times, there have been many famous individuals named Sarah. English soprano Sarah Brightman, known for her powerful and angelic voice, has gained worldwide acclaim. American actress Sarah Jessica Parker captivated audiences with her iconic role as Carrie Bradshaw in the TV series “Sex and the City.” American politician Sarah Palin made history as the first female governor of Alaska and was a vice-presidential candidate. Canadian musician Sarah McLachlan has touched hearts with her soulful and emotional songs. Lastly, we have the talented American comedian and actress Sarah Silverman, known for her sharp wit and comedic timing.

These notable Sarahs have made significant contributions in their respective fields and have left a lasting impact. Their success and achievements have further solidified the name Sarah’s reputation and prominence.