Sonam Unisex
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: SOH-nahm /ˈsoʊ.nɑːm/
Origin: Tibetan; Sanskrit
Meaning: Tibetan: good fortune; Sanskrit: auspicious
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Sonam has its roots in the Sanskrit language, where it is derived from the word "sonā," meaning "gold" or "golden." This etymological origin reflects a cultural significance associated with wealth, beauty, and preciousness in various South Asian traditions. The name has been adopted in several languages and cultures across the Indian subcontinent, particularly in regions where Sanskrit has influenced local languages, such as Hindi, Nepali, and Tibetan.
Historically, the use of Sonam can be traced back to ancient texts and scriptures, where names often held significant meanings and were chosen to reflect virtues or desirable qualities. In the context of Buddhism, for instance, the name Sonam is associated with auspiciousness and good fortune, as it is often given to children born during favorable astrological periods.
This connection to auspiciousness is particularly notable in Tibetan culture, where the name is commonly used and celebrated. Culturally, Sonam resonates with themes of beauty and value, making it a cherished name among families.
It is often associated with positive attributes, such as brightness and brilliance, akin to the qualities of gold. The name's enduring presence in various cultures is a testament to its deep-rooted significance and the values it embodies.
Additionally, diminutive forms or variations of the name may exist in different regions, reflecting local linguistic adaptations while maintaining the core meaning related to gold and preciousness.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Sonam was first seen in the United States in 1986. Sonam has ranked as high as #1209 nationally, which occurred in 1992, and has been most popular in California, New York, and New Jersey. In the past 5 years the name Sonam has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Sonam (2023)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| NY | 8 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1986 | 5 |
| 1987 | 6 |
| 1988 | 10 |
| 1989 | 24 |
| 1990 | 29 |
| 1991 | 26 |
| 1992 | 32 |
| 1993 | 20 |
| 1994 | 13 |
| 1995 | 13 |
| 1996 | 8 |
| 1997 | 9 |
| 1998 | 12 |
| 1999 | 8 |
| 2000 | 11 |
| 2001 | 7 |
| 2002 | 13 |
| 2003 | 7 |
| 2007 | 7 |
| 2009 | 12 |
| 2010 | 13 |
| 2011 | 8 |
| 2012 | 18 |
| 2013 | 16 |
| 2014 | 19 |
| 2015 | 16 |
| 2016 | 19 |
| 2017 | 16 |
| 2018 | 18 |
| 2019 | 8 |
| 2020 | 7 |
| 2021 | 9 |
| 2022 | 16 |
| 2023 | 17 |
| 2024 | 9 |