Meaning, origin, history
Savannah is a girl's name of Native American origin, specifically from the Creek tribe. It means "flat tropical plain" or "treeless plain," referring to the vast grasslands found in regions like Florida and Georgia. The name Savannah gained popularity in the United States during the late 20th century, likely due to its exotic sound and association with the natural beauty of the American South.
The earliest recorded use of the name Savannah is believed to be by John and William Bartram, two American botanists who explored the Southeast in the mid-18th century. They encountered a large expanse of flat, treeless land near present-day Savannah, Georgia, which they named "Savanna." The name was later adopted as the city's official moniker when it was founded in 1733.
Despite its Native American origins and early use in North America, Savannah did not become a popular given name until much later. In fact, it was relatively uncommon throughout most of the 20th century. However, beginning in the late 1980s, Savannah's popularity as a baby girl name started to rise significantly. By the mid-1990s, it had entered the top 100 names for girls in the United States and continued to climb in popularity throughout the following decades.
Today, Savannah remains a popular choice among parents looking for unique yet meaningful names for their daughters. Its exotic sound, beautiful meaning, and rich historical context continue to attract those who wish to bestow upon their child a name with deep roots and genuine significance.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Savannah since 1880
Total births
186,804
Total since 1880
Peak year
2000
7,101 births
in 2023
2,739
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-19%
↘
vs previous 5 years