Rising since 2009, #5,099 for girls today.
Popularity of Sunniva since 2005
Babies named Sunniva per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 5 |
| 2010s | 56 |
| 2020s | 117 |
Meaning & origin
Sunniva is a distinctly Scandinavian name with ancient Irish roots, first recorded in the United States in 2005. Its popularity has been rising steadily since 2009, reflecting a broader trend toward Norse-inspired names. In 2025, the name ranked 5099, with an incidence of 1 in 64,291 births. The name's peak year was 2023, suggesting it is still gaining traction. While not yet widespread among top states, Sunniva's trajectory points to increasing recognition, likely due to its melodic sound and historical association with Saint Sunniva, a figure of Norwegian legend. The name offers a unique alternative to more common Scandinavian imports like Ingrid or Astrid, appealing to parents seeking a name with both warmth and strength.
The name Sunniva is the Latinized form of the Old Irish name Sunngifu, derived from elements meaning 'sun' and 'gift'. In Irish legend, Sunniva was a Christian princess who fled to Norway to escape marriage to a pagan Viking, later becoming a saint. The name was revived in Norway in the 19th century and has since spread to other Scandinavian countries and the English-speaking world.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Sunni, Sunn, Niva, Viva
Variants: Sunneva, Synnøve, Sunngifu
Sibling names for Sunniva
Names that share Sunniva's style, for a brother or sister.
