Sawney

What does the baby name Sawney mean? Learn about what Sawney means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Sawney - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Sawney: S-A-W-N-E-Y, is a 6-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Sawney: SAW-nee
Meaning of Sawney: Defender of man.
Origin of Sawney: The name 'Sawney' has a rich history, with its origins dating back centuries. It is believed to be a diminutive form of the name 'Alexander', which is derived from the Greek name 'Alexandros', meaning 'defender of men'. The earliest known use of the name 'Sawney' can be traced back to Scotland in the 16th century. It was a common nickname for those named Alexander, similar to how 'Alex' is used today.; Greek Names; Scottish Names
Popularity of Sawney: Throughout history, the popularity of the name 'Sawney' has fluctuated. While it was not a widely used name, there have been notable spikes in its usage. One such spike occurred in the 18th century, thanks to the legend of 'Sawney' Bean. This Scottish folklore tale, which we will explore in more detail later, brought attention to the name and increased its popularity during that time.; Sawney currently has no likes. Be the first to like this name.

Etymology of Sawney

The etymology of the name 'Sawney' can be traced back to the Scottish Gaelic language. In Gaelic, the name 'Sawney' is derived from 'Sasannach', meaning 'Saxon' or 'Englishman'. This linguistic connection highlights the influence of Scottish culture and history on the name's development.

Cultural Significance of Sawney

The name 'Sawney' holds particular cultural significance within Scottish folklore. It is closely associated with the infamous legend of 'Sawney' Bean, a cannibalistic figure said to have terrorized the coastal regions of Scotland during the 16th century. While the historical accuracy of this tale is debatable, it has become an enduring part of Scottish folklore and has contributed to the name's cultural significance.