MyNameList

    Susan

    Also spelled: Susanna, Susanne, Shoshana, Suzanne

    Susanna (Italian, Spanish, German, Dutch, Scandinavian) · Suzanne (French) · Zuzana (Czech, Slovak) · Zsuzsanna (Hungarian) · Shoshana (Hebrew)

    Pronunciation: SOO-zən

    ♀ Female
    Hebrew, Greek, Latin

    Meaning

    lily

    Origin

    Hebrew

    The Story Behind Susan

    The name Susan is a derivative of the Hebrew name Shoshannah (שׁוֹשַׁנָּה), which means 'lily' or 'rose'. It entered the English language through the Greek Sousanna and Latin Susanna, which are found in the Old Testament Apocrypha (specifically the Book of Susanna). The name gained popularity in Europe during the Middle Ages, particularly after the Crusades, as biblical names became more common.

    Susan has seen various periods of popularity. It was a very common name in English-speaking countries, especially in the mid-20th century, reaching its peak in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s. Its widespread use led to many diminutives and variations. While its popularity has declined since its peak, it remains a classic and recognizable name.

    Popularity & Trends

    Rarity:
    Common
    Trend:Declining
    Peak decade:1950s
    Era:Medieval, Victorian, Mid-century, Contemporary

    Popularity Trends

    Is Susan Right for Your Baby?

    Susan is a Classic, Friendly, Gentle name for girls that suits parents looking for something classic and well-established. It works well internationally and is easy to recognise across cultures. Most people will pronounce it correctly on the first try.

    Syllables2
    LengthMedium
    International UseGlobal
    PronunciationEasy

    Cultural Associations

    Biblical / Christian

    Regions Where Susan Is Used

    Hebrew / Jewish
    Greek / Hellenic
    Romance / Latin
    Anglo-Saxon / British

    Name Vibe

    Classic
    Friendly
    Gentle

    Famous People Named Susan

    • Susan Sarandon, American actress
    • Susan B. Anthony, American social reformer and women's rights activist
    • Susan Boyle, Scottish singer
    • Susan Sontag, American writer and philosopher
    • Susan Lucci, American actress

    Nicknames & Short Forms

    Sue
    Susie
    • Sue
    • Susie
    • Suzie
    • Suki

    Susan in different fonts

    SusanDancing Script
    SusanCaveat
    SusanSatisfy
    SusanPacifico
    SusanGreat Vibes

    Sibling Name Style

    If you like Susan, you might also like names with these styles:

    Classic
    Traditional

    Related Names

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    Frequently Asked Questions About Susan

    What does Susan mean?

    Susan means "lily". It is derived from Hebrew.

    What is the origin of Susan?

    Susan originates from Hebrew, Greek, Latin. Its cultural origin is Hebrew.

    Is Susan a male or female name?

    Susan is a female name.

    How do you pronounce Susan?

    Susan is pronounced "SOO-zən".

    What language does Susan come from?

    Susan comes from Hebrew, Greek, Latin.

    Is Susan a popular name?

    Susan is considered a common name, and its popularity trend is declining.

    What are variants of Susan?

    Variants of Susan include Susanna, Susanne, Shoshana, Suzanne.

    What are nicknames for Susan?

    Common nicknames for Susan include Sue, Susie.

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