Declining since 1985, #14,942 for girls today.
Popularity of Sandi since 1934
Babies named Sandi per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1930s | 75 |
| 1940s | 1,314 |
| 1950s | 1,495 |
| 1960s | 3,103 |
| 1970s | 2,184 |
| 1980s | 1,139 |
| 1990s | 427 |
| 2000s | 253 |
| 2010s | 76 |
| 2020s | 35 |
Meaning & origin
Sandi, a diminutive form of Sandra or Alexander, has been used as a given name in the United States since at least 1934. Its peak year of popularity was 1964, when it ranked substantially higher than its current position. The name has been on a declining trajectory since 1985, and as of 2025 it is given to approximately 1 in 321,453 newborns. Sandi reflects a trend of short, nickname-style names that were particularly fashionable in mid-20th-century America. It carries the classic meaning 'defender of mankind' through its Greek etymology, though many modern parents may choose it simply for its friendly, approachable sound.
Sandi is a diminutive form of Sandra, itself a short form of Alessandra, the Italian version of Alexandra. Alexandra is the feminine form of Alexander, derived from the Greek Alexandros, meaning 'defender of men' (from alexo 'to defend' and aner 'man'). Sandi emerged as an independent given name in English-speaking countries in the early 20th century, often used as a nickname that later became a standalone name. It saw peak popularity in the United States in the 1960s.
Where Sandi is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Sandy, San
Sibling names for Sandi
Names that share Sandi's style, for a brother or sister.
