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Sofia Girl

Popularity: #10 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationso-FEE-uh / /səˈfiːə/

Greek; Latin; Spanish; Italian

Meaning

Wisdom (Greek); wisdom (Latin)

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Sofia has its roots in the Greek word "sophia," which translates to "wisdom." This term was prevalent in ancient Greek philosophy, where wisdom was highly esteemed, and it has been associated with various philosophical and theological discussions throughout history. The name entered the Latin language as "Sophia," maintaining its meaning, and subsequently made its way into Old French before being adopted into English as "Sofia" or "Sophia." The transition into English occurred around the 16th century, influenced by the Renaissance's revival of classical learning and culture.

Historically, the name Sofia has been borne by numerous notable figures, including saints and royalty. One of the most significant early bearers was Saint Sophia, a Christian martyr venerated in the 3rd century. Her name became emblematic of wisdom in Christian contexts, particularly in Eastern Orthodox traditions, where the concept of divine wisdom is often personified as a feminine figure. The name also gained prominence through various queens and princesses across Europe, further embedding it in the cultural fabric of many nations.

Culturally, Sofia has been associated with ideals of knowledge and enlightenment, often symbolizing a pursuit of truth and understanding. The name has appeared in various literary and artistic works, reinforcing its connection to wisdom and virtue. In addition to its use in religious contexts, the name has been celebrated in literature, with references in works from the Middle Ages to modern times. The diminutive form "Sophie" has also been widely used, particularly in French and English-speaking countries, maintaining the original meaning while offering a more familiar or affectionate variant.

Trend Summary

Sofia has consistently ranked among the top names for girls in the United States over the past two decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Sophia
  • Sophie
  • Sofiah

International Variants

  • Sofía (Spanish)
  • Sophie (French)
  • Sofija (Slavic)
  • Sofie (Danish)

Famous people named Sofia

Sofia Vergara is an actress and model best known for Modern Family, Hot Pursuit, and Chef.

Sofia Coppola is a filmmaker best known for Lost in Translation, The Virgin Suicides, and Marie Antoinette.

Sofia Kenin is a professional tennis player best known for winning the Australian Open and reaching the French Open final.

Sofia Goggia is a professional alpine ski racer best known for winning multiple World Cup races and a gold medal in downhill skiing at the Winter Olympics.

Fictional characters named Sofia

Sofia is a fictional character from the animated television series Sofia the First. She is a young girl who becomes a princess and learns valuable lessons about kindness and friendship.

Sofia is a fictional character from the video game series Fire Emblem. She is a skilled healer and a member of the Order of Heroes, known for her dedication to helping others.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Sofia was first seen in the United States in 1881. Sofia has ranked as high as #47 nationally, which occurred in 2015, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Sofia has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Sofia (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 1,331
17%
TX 1,232
16%
FL 650
8%
NY 558
7%
IL 388
5%
NJ 291
4%
NC 248
3%
GA 233
3%
AZ 211
3%
VA 205
3%
WA 203
3%
PA 199
3%
MA 187
2%
OH 164
2%
CO 151
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18816
188610
18875
188812
188912
18908
189114
189215
189310
18947
189512
189611
18975
189821
189910
190017
190114
190212
190311
190411
19059
190619
190717
190818
190938
191037
191133
191232
191342
191438
191544
191652
191758
191844
191949
192060
192164
192257
192361
192468
192576
192647
192764
192871
192960
193078
193160
193237
193347
193435
193549
193643
193723
193839
193943
194046
194131
194224
194339
194436
194533
194635
194751
194839
194946
195055
195145
195238
195348
195451
195554
195644
195756
195860
195964
196069
196167
196278
196384
196492
196590
196695
1967104
196890
1969129
1970126
1971158
1972132
1973139
1974144
1975157
1976160
1977190
1978177
1979194
1980192
1981267
1982240
1983262
1984252
1985264
1986245
1987315
1988282
1989322
1990349
1991450
1992453
1993559
1994510
1995607
1996767
19971,183
19981,346
19991,604
20002,094
20012,288
20023,061
20033,488
20044,474
20055,162
20065,082
20076,049
20085,985
20095,696
20106,328
20117,331
20127,837
20139,169
20149,611
20159,699
20169,177
20178,175
20187,663
20197,401
20206,987
20216,980
20227,280
20237,665
20248,094