MallowbyNames

Sanaz

sah-NAHZ · full of grace or elegance; also interpreted as 'unique' or 'matchless'

Peak popularity
1991
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Sanaz since 1978

Babies named Sanaz per year in U.S. Social Security records.

4812198020002020Most births 1991Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1970s13
1980s75
1990s27
2000s20
2010s7
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Sanaz is a modern Persian name that first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1978, reflecting the growing Iranian diaspora community. The name reached its peak popularity in 1991, during a decade (the 1990s) when many Persian names gained modest visibility in the United States. While it has never ranked among the top 1,000 names nationally, Sanaz has maintained a stable presence over the years, with consistent but low usage. In 2025, the name continues to be used at a similar frequency. The name's etymology is modern, combining a root suggesting grace or elegance with a common Persian feminine suffix. Sanaz remains particularly meaningful within Iranian families, where it carries connotations of beauty and distinction.

Sanaz is a modern Persian name, likely formed from the prefix 'san-' (related to 'san' meaning 'grace' or 'elegance') combined with the suffix '-az', which is common in Persian feminine names. It emerged in Iran in the late 20th century, gaining popularity in the 1990s. The name is sometimes associated with the Persian word 'sanā' (praise) but this connection is debated.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Sana, Naz, Sani

Variants: Sanaaz

Sibling names for Sanaz

Names that share Sanaz's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

S is for Sanaz, our favorite little girl.

S is for Sanaz…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Sanaz's letter becomes Sanaz's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

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Questions parents ask

What does the name Sanaz mean?
Sanaz is a Persian name often interpreted as 'full of grace' or 'elegant'. Some sources also suggest meanings like 'unique' or 'matchless'.
How popular is the name Sanaz?
According to U.S. Social Security data, Sanaz first appeared in 1978 and reached its peak popularity in 1991. It has remained relatively stable in usage since then, though it has never ranked among the top 1,000 names.
Is Sanaz a boy's or girl's name?
Sanaz is exclusively used as a feminine name.