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Sydney Unisex

Popularity: #269 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationSID-nee / /ˈsɪd.ni/

English; French

Meaning

English: wide meadow; French: from Saint Denis

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Sydney has its roots in Old English, derived from the elements "sīd," meaning "wide," and "ēg," meaning "island" or "riverbank." This etymological foundation suggests a geographical connection, likely referring to a wide island or riverbank. The name was originally used as a surname, notably associated with the French place name Saint-Denis, which was brought to England after the Norman Conquest in the 11th century. The transition from surname to given name occurred in the 19th century, as was common with many surnames during this period, leading to its adoption as a first name in English-speaking countries.

Historically, the name Sydney is linked to several notable figures and events. One of the most significant is the establishment of Sydney, Australia, in 1788, named after Lord Sydney, the British Home Secretary at the time. This connection has contributed to the name's association with exploration and colonial history. Additionally, the name appears in various literary works, including those of prominent authors, which helped to solidify its presence in the cultural lexicon. The use of Sydney in literature and its ties to significant historical events have contributed to its resonance in English-speaking cultures.

Culturally, the name Sydney carries connotations of openness and expansiveness, reflective of its etymological meaning. It has been embraced in various forms, including the diminutive "Sid," though this is less common. The name's association with the vibrant city of Sydney, known for its iconic landmarks and multicultural environment, further enhances its cultural significance. Overall, Sydney embodies a blend of historical depth and geographical connotations, making it a name rich in meaning and tradition.

Trend Summary

Sydney has experienced fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Sidney

International Variants

  • Sidonie (French)
  • Sydnee (English)

Famous people named Sydney

Sydney Poitier is an actor and director best known for Lilies of the Field, Guess Who's Coming to Dinner, and To Sir, with Love.

Sydney Sweeney is an actress best known for Euphoria, The White Lotus, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.

Sydney Bristow is a fictional character portrayed by Jennifer Garner in the television series Alias, known for her role as a spy.

Sydney Leroux is a soccer player best known for her time with the U.S. Women's National Team and playing in the NWSL.

Fictional characters named Sydney

Sydney Bristow is a fictional character from the TV series Alias. She is a double agent working for the CIA while infiltrating a criminal organization.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Sydney was first seen in the United States in 1886. Sydney has ranked as high as #60 nationally, which occurred in 2000, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Ohio, New York, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Sydney has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Sydney (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 105
10%
TX 82
8%
NY 65
6%
FL 55
5%
PA 49
5%
NC 44
4%
CO 41
4%
MA 40
4%
IL 39
4%
MN 38
4%
OH 36
4%
WA 31
3%
WI 31
3%
GA 29
3%
VA 27
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18868
18886
18906
18926
18965
18996
19017
19025
19035
19046
190521
19066
19077
190811
190916
191015
191112
191212
191321
191423
191527
191639
191732
191844
191940
192030
192124
192230
192344
192433
192525
192621
192738
192828
192933
193029
193141
193272
1933107
1934103
193594
193697
193791
193887
193977
194085
1941171
1942187
1943190
1944145
1945132
1946152
1947137
1948137
1949176
1950202
1951205
1952207
1953153
1954143
1955134
1956120
1957117
1958105
1959136
1960128
1961127
1962100
1963155
1964169
1965167
1966167
1967128
1968100
1969106
1970103
1971104
197284
197363
197450
197593
1976121
197789
1978110
1979114
1980130
1981154
1982155
1983201
1984285
1985440
1986464
1987651
1988914
19891,193
19902,028
19912,380
19922,708
19933,050
19944,737
19957,360
19967,259
19978,032
19988,553
19999,649
200010,243
20019,639
20029,034
20038,911
20048,368
20057,376
20066,516
20076,032
20085,264
20095,059
20104,335
20113,973
20123,456
20133,177
20142,855
20152,660
20162,322
20172,013
20181,757
20191,533
20201,245
20211,231
20221,169
20231,003
20241,097