Sable Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: SAY-buhl //ˈseɪ.bəl//
Origin: English; French
Meaning: English: black; French: sable (the color black)
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Sable has its roots in the Old French word "sable," which means "black" or "dark." This term is derived from the Latin "sabulum," meaning "sand," but it evolved to refer specifically to the black fur of the sable, a small mammal valued for its luxurious dark coat. The transition from Latin to Old French occurred during the medieval period, particularly as the Norman influence permeated England following the Norman Conquest of 1066.
The name entered the English language through this cultural exchange, where it began to be used not only as a descriptor of color but also as a given name, particularly for girls, in later centuries. Historically, the name Sable has been associated with various cultural and artistic representations.
In heraldry, sable is used to denote the color black, symbolizing constancy and grief. This association with color and its symbolic meanings has allowed the name to resonate within various artistic and literary contexts.
Although there are no prominent historical figures directly named Sable, the name's connection to the rich symbolism of black fur and its representation in heraldry has contributed to its enduring presence in literature and art throughout the centuries. In terms of cultural significance, Sable embodies themes of elegance and mystery, often linked to the qualities of the sable animal itself.
The name evokes a sense of sophistication and has been utilized in various forms of creative expression, including literature and poetry. While diminutive forms or variations of the name are not widely recognized, the name's unique sound and historical associations have allowed it to maintain a distinct identity within the broader context of names derived from color and nature.
Famous people named Sable
Fictional characters named Sable
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Sable was first seen in the United States in 1923. Sable has ranked as high as #985 nationally, which occurred in 1986, and has been most popular in Texas, California, New York, Florida, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Sable has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Sable (2004)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| OH | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1923 | 5 |
| 1927 | 6 |
| 1936 | 6 |
| 1938 | 6 |
| 1941 | 6 |
| 1949 | 5 |
| 1950 | 5 |
| 1956 | 7 |
| 1984 | 7 |
| 1985 | 12 |
| 1986 | 181 |
| 1987 | 116 |
| 1988 | 88 |
| 1989 | 156 |
| 1990 | 67 |
| 1991 | 74 |
| 1992 | 53 |
| 1993 | 39 |
| 1994 | 38 |
| 1995 | 35 |
| 1996 | 29 |
| 1997 | 35 |
| 1998 | 65 |
| 1999 | 68 |
| 2000 | 43 |
| 2001 | 26 |
| 2002 | 34 |
| 2003 | 17 |
| 2004 | 21 |
| 2005 | 18 |
| 2006 | 14 |
| 2007 | 18 |
| 2008 | 14 |
| 2009 | 16 |
| 2010 | 11 |
| 2011 | 5 |
| 2012 | 19 |
| 2013 | 16 |
| 2014 | 15 |
| 2015 | 16 |
| 2016 | 21 |
| 2017 | 21 |
| 2018 | 22 |
| 2019 | 28 |
| 2020 | 23 |
| 2021 | 30 |
| 2022 | 28 |
| 2023 | 25 |
| 2024 | 27 |