Safe girl names and guilty pleasures
- Sabella
Description:
Sabella is a feminine name with Italian and Latin origins, most commonly considered a shortened form of Isabella or a variant of Sabina. Isabella derives from the Hebrew name Elisheba, meaning 'God is my oath,' while Sabina comes from Latin, referring to the ancient Sabine people of Italy. Sabella combines melodic quality with historical depth, featuring the soft 's' sound and flowing 'bella' ending (meaning 'beautiful' in Italian). Though less common than Isabella, Sabella has experienced modest usage in the United States and other English-speaking countries. The name carries an elegant, romantic quality with its Italian flair while remaining accessible and easily pronounced. Its connection to both beauty and ancient heritage gives it substance beyond its pretty sound.
- Sabrielle
Description:
Sabrielle is a feminine name that blends elements of Gabrielle and Sabrina, creating an elegant, modern option with subtle classical undertones. The name likely derives from either the Hebrew name Gabriel, meaning 'God is my strength,' or possibly relates to the Latin name Sabrina, associated with the River Severn in Britain. The -elle suffix adds a French-inspired delicacy and femininity. While not among the most common names, Sabrielle has gained modest popularity in recent decades as parents seek unique alternatives to more traditional choices. It offers versatile nickname options including Sabi, Brie, Ella, or Sabre. Sabrielle conveys both strength and grace, appealing to those looking for a name that is distinctive yet melodious and easy to pronounce.
- Sabrina
Origin:
Celtic, Latin name for the River SevernDescription:
Sabrina, the bewitchingly radiant name of a legendary Celtic goddess, is best known as the heroine of the eponymous film, originally played by Audrey Hepburn, and later as a teenage TV witch; it would make a distinctive alternative to the ultrapopular Samantha. Similar names you might also want to consider include Sabina and Serena.
- Sadie
Origin:
Diminutive of SarahMeaning:
"princess"Description:
Sadie started as a nickname for Sarah, but their images couldn't be more disparate. Where Sarah is serious and sweet, Sadie is full of sass and fun.
- Saffira
Origin:
Variation of SapphireDescription:
Saffira is the softer, Latin variation of the English name Sapphire. In sound it is reminiscent of Zephyra.
- Safia
Description:
Safia is a feminine name with Arabic origins, meaning 'pure' or 'clear.' It's a variant of the name Safiya (or Safiyyah), which has significant historical importance in Islamic tradition as it was the name of one of Prophet Muhammad's wives, known for her wisdom and purity of heart. Safia is used across diverse cultures including Arabic, Persian, Swahili, and various European communities. The name has a flowing, melodic quality that has contributed to its global appeal. While maintaining its cultural roots, it has gained popularity in Western countries for its elegant simplicity and beautiful meaning. The name conveys qualities of clarity, wisdom, and moral purity, making it a meaningful choice for parents from various cultural backgrounds.
- Safire
Description:
Safire is a feminine name that appears to be a variant spelling of 'Sapphire,' the precious blue gemstone. The name comes from Greek 'sappheiros' and Hebrew 'sappir,' both referring to the blue gem associated with wisdom, loyalty, and purity. This alternative spelling gives the name a more distinctive and modern feel while maintaining its connection to the gemstone's qualities. Safire has never been widely common but appeals to parents seeking a precious stone name with a unique twist. The name carries connotations of beauty, rarity, and resilience, making it an attractive choice for those who want a name that feels both distinctive and meaningful.
- Saga
Origin:
Swedish word nameMeaning:
"story; seeress"Description:
Apt name for a little drama queen with a long future ahead of her. Saga is a Top 30 girls' name in Sweden.
- Sari
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"noble"Description:
Sari is a cute spin on Sarah, though some may hear it as "sorry," and it is also an item of clothing worn in India. These days many people will also confuse Sari with Suri, the lovely and unsual name of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes' much-publicized young daughter.
- Sasha
Origin:
Russian, diminutive of Greek AlexanderMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
Sasha, largely male in Russia--and also spelled Sascha and Sacha--is an energetic name that has really taken off for girls here, chosen by Jerry Seinfeld (using the alternate Sascha spelling) and other celebs. The Barack Obamas use it as the nickname for their younger daughter, whose proper name is Natasha. But in line with a trend toward softer-sounding boys' names like Asher and Joshua and thanks to Borat star Sacha Baron Cohen, Sasha also still has life as a boys' name too--it's popular in France for boys and girls almost equally.
- Savita
Origin:
HindiMeaning:
"sun, rouser, stimulator"Description:
Lively and bright, Savita is among the most popular Hindi names for girls, and one that could easily immigrate.
- Seraphina
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"ardent; fiery"Description:
Seraphina is one of the most-searched name on Nameberry, destined for even greater popularity. The highest-ranking angels, the six-winged seraphim, inspired the lovely name Seraphina.
- Sestina
Origin:
Form of poetryDescription:
The sestina is a type of poetry dating back to the medieval troubadours of Spain and France. As its name suggests, the sestina has six stanzas, each with six lines. Perfect for a sixth daughter or literary families. Sissy or Tina are obvious nicknames.
- Sicily
Origin:
Place-nameDescription:
Sicily is a lilting Italian place-name that sounds like the elegant British Cicely -- which you might consider a plus or a minus.
- Silva
Description:
Silva is a feminine name with ancient roots, derived from Latin meaning 'forest' or 'woodland.' This nature-inspired name evokes images of trees, greenery, and natural beauty. Silva has cross-cultural appeal, appearing in various forms throughout Romance languages, particularly in Portuguese and Spanish-speaking regions where it's also a common surname. In Eastern European traditions, particularly Slavic countries, similar variations exist. The name carries an elegant simplicity while connecting to the natural world. While not among the most common given names in English-speaking countries, Silva maintains steady usage internationally. Its brevity, ease of pronunciation, and meaningful connection to nature make it appealing to contemporary parents seeking a name that is both distinctive and grounded in traditional roots.
- Silvia
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"from the woods"Description:
This original form of the name -- the more familiar Sylvia spelling came later -- seems more modern now.
- Sissy
Origin:
Diminutive of Cecilia; pet name for "sister"Meaning:
"sister"Description:
Old-fashioned nickname for a sister, almost never heard today.
- Solene
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"with solemnity"Description:
Solene is a variation of Solange fashionable in recent years in France and a new hit name on Nameberry.
- Solenne
Description:
Solenne is a feminine French name derived from the Latin word 'sollemnis,' meaning 'solemn' or 'ceremonial.' In French culture, it carries connotations of dignity, grace, and reflection. The name has been consistently used in France for generations but remains relatively uncommon elsewhere. Solenne gained some international recognition in the late 20th century as cultural barriers diminished, though it retains its distinctly French character. Those named Solenne are often perceived as thoughtful, dignified, and possessing inner strength. The name's beautiful sound combined with its meaningful etymology makes it an elegant choice for parents seeking something traditional yet distinctive.
- Solina
Description:
Solina is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from Latin "sol" meaning "sun," suggesting brightness and warmth. In Slavic languages, particularly Polish, it could relate to salt (sól) or be a diminutive of names containing "sol." Solina is also the name of a village and reservoir in Poland. Alternatively, it might be a variation of Selina or Celina. The name has a melodic quality with its soft consonants and flowing vowels. While not widely common in any single culture, Solina has appeal across different regions for its pleasant sound and positive associations with light and warmth. Its international versatility makes it accessible while remaining distinctive and uncommon.