Savva is a unique and intriguing name of Greek origin. It is derived from the ancient Greek word "sophia," which means wisdom. In Greek mythology, Sophia was one of the three original goddesses, along with Gaia (earth) and Chaos (void). She represented the personification of wisdom.
The name Savva has a rich history that spans centuries. Its earliest recorded use dates back to the Byzantine Empire, where it was often given to boys born into prominent or scholarly families. The name's association with wisdom made it particularly appealing to parents who wanted their children to grow up to be wise and learned individuals.
Over time, Savva became popular not only in Greece but also in other Orthodox Christian communities throughout Eastern Europe. In Russia, for instance, the name was often given to boys born on or near the feast day of Saint Sophia, which is celebrated on December 17th according to the Julian calendar.
Today, Savva remains a distinctive and beloved name, especially among families with ties to Greece, Russia, or other Orthodox Christian cultures. While it may not be as widely known as some other names of Greek origin, such as Alexander or Nikolaos, those who bear the name Savva carry with them a powerful symbol of wisdom and knowledge.
In conclusion, Savva is a compelling name with deep roots in Greek mythology and history. Its association with wisdom makes it an excellent choice for parents looking to bestow their child with a unique and meaningful moniker that pays homage to ancient traditions.
The name Savva has been a consistent choice among parents in the United States over the past decade and a half, with an average of around 9 births per year between 2007 and 2021. The highest number of births recorded for this name was in 2012, 2013, and 2016, with each of those years seeing 12 newborns named Savva. However, there were also a few years where the number of births was quite low - just five in both 2020 and 2023.
It's interesting to note that while the popularity of Savva has remained relatively steady over time, there have been some fluctuations from year to year. For instance, between 2017 and 2019, the number of births dropped significantly from seven in 2017 to just five in 2020. However, this trend appears to be reversing itself once again with eight births recorded in both 2021 and 2023.
Overall, though, these statistics indicate that Savva is a name that parents continue to choose for their children year after year, making it a popular choice among families across the United States.