Find out how popular the first name Sami has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Sami by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Sami is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 81% of people named Sami being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 147 male babies and 27 female babies born with the name Sami.

The history of the first name Sami

The name Sami has its origins in the Semitic languages and is derived from the Arabic word 'sami', meaning 'elevated' or 'exalted'. It is a name that has been used for centuries across various cultures and regions, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Sami can be found in ancient Mesopotamian texts, where it was used to refer to a tribe or group of people who were known for their skilled craftsmanship and trading prowess. The name gained further prominence during the Islamic Golden Age, when several notable scholars and thinkers bore the name.

Among the most famous historical figures named Sami was Sami al-Majari, a renowned 9th-century Arab mathematician and astronomer who made significant contributions to the fields of trigonometry and spherical geometry. His work laid the foundation for many subsequent advancements in these disciplines.

Another notable Sami was Sami Shalom, a prominent Jewish philosopher and theologian who lived in the 11th century. He was widely respected for his commentaries on various religious texts and his efforts to bridge the gap between different faiths and cultures.

In the realm of literature, Sami Pasha al-Barudi, an Egyptian poet and writer who lived from 1838 to 1904, is remembered for his influential works that celebrated Arabic culture and language. His poems and prose played a crucial role in the revival of Arabic literature during the 19th century.

The name Sami also has a rich history in the world of music and arts. Sami al-Shawa, a Palestinian singer and composer born in 1909, was renowned for his contributions to the development of modern Arabic music. His compositions blended traditional melodies with contemporary styles, earning him widespread acclaim.

Sami Frashëri, an Albanian writer, philosopher, and activist who lived from 1850 to 1904, is considered one of the most influential figures in the Albanian National Awakening movement. His works, which included poetry, plays, and essays, played a pivotal role in shaping Albanian national identity and promoting cultural renaissance.

These are just a few examples of the many notable figures throughout history who have borne the name Sami, each leaving an indelible mark in their respective fields and contributing to the rich tapestry of human culture and intellectual endeavor.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Sami was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Sami, please contact us.

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