Girls Names Beginning With S

The image of the lovely Lady Sybil, tragic youngest daughter of the Crawley family on Downton Abbey is likely to go a long way towards reviving this almost forgotten name, off the list since 1966 and most popular in the 1920s and '30s.

Sybille is a feminine name of Greek origin, representing a French and German variation of Sibyl. In ancient Greece, sibyls were women believed to possess prophetic powers and served as oracles. The name carries connotations of wisdom, foresight, and mysterious knowledge. This continental European spelling gives the name an elegant, sophisticated quality compared to the more anglicized Sibyl or Sybil. Popular in French-speaking regions and Germany, Sybille combines ancient mystique with refined European charm. The name experienced modest popularity throughout the 20th century but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a name with classical roots and international appeal.

Sleek and sharp Sylva is the Czech variation of Silvia. It could equally double up as a word-adjacent name in English, thanks to its similarity to the metal Silver.

Sylvette is a delicate feminine name of French origin, functioning as a diminutive of Sylvie or Sylvia, which derive from Latin 'silva' meaning 'forest' or 'wood.' The suffix '-ette' adds a sense of daintiness and charm, typical of French naming patterns. The name gained some recognition through Pablo Picasso's series of artwork titled 'Sylvette,' inspired by a young woman he met in 1954. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Sylvette has maintained modest usage in French-speaking regions. The name evokes images of woodland grace and carries a sophisticated European flair while remaining approachable. Its connection to nature aligns with current naming trends favoring botanical and natural elements.

A sweet and lively name with two distinct derivations. It can be a short form of Sylvia or a variant spelling of its French form Sylvie, meaning "of the forest". Or, it can be a Norwegian and Swedish variant of Solveig, meaning "sun strength".

The musical, sylvan Sylvia seems poised to join former friends Frances and Beatrice and Dorothy back in the nursery.

Sylvianne is an elegant feminine name that represents an elaborate extension of Sylvia, which derives from Latin 'silva' meaning 'forest' or 'woodland.' The addition of the French-inspired suffix '-anne' creates a more ornate, sophisticated variation that maintains the nature-inspired roots while adding a touch of romantic flair. This melodic four-syllable name carries an air of classical femininity with a European sensibility, particularly French or Belgian influence. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Sylvianne may have more presence in Francophone regions. The name evokes images of woodland grace and natural beauty while its flowing pronunciation offers a lyrical quality. For parents seeking a name with classical roots but distinctive presentation, Sylvianne provides an uncommon alternative to more familiar forms like Sylvia or Sylvie.

Although Sylvia seems to be having somewhat of a revival among trendsetting baby namers, we'd still opt for the even gentler and more unusual Sylvie. Despite being dated in its native France (where it was popular during the 1950s and 60s), in English-speaking regions it still feels fresh and international without being unfamiliar and has a cosmopolitan, international air. It debuted on the US Top 1000 in 2016.

Unique baby name featured in the New Testament.