Sylvia

Meaning forest, woods
Origin Latin, Roman
Gender Girl
Popularity Moderate
Length 6
Syllables 3
Syllabification Syl-vi-a

About Sylvia

Sylvia has experienced a remarkable renaissance, emerging from decades of relative quiet to reclaim its rightful place as a name of subtle sophistication and natural beauty. There is something inherently literary about Sylvia, perhaps because it has graced the pages of countless novels and poetry collections throughout the centuries. The name evokes woodland scenes and quiet contemplation, suggesting a person of depth and intelligence who values both knowledge and introspection. Sylvia manages the rare feat of being simultaneously classic and contemporary, appealing to parents who appreciate vintage charm without wanting something that feels dated. The soft 'v' sound in the middle gives it a gentle quality, while the strong opening syllable provides balance and structure. Sylvia photographs beautifully on paper and sounds lovely when spoken aloud, with a rhythm that makes it satisfying to say. It's a name that ages gracefully, working equally well for a curious toddler, an ambitious teenager, or an accomplished professional.

Variations of Name Sylvia

Silvia
Silvie
Sílvia
Silvija

Nicknames for Sylvia

Syl
Sylvie
Vie
Sil
Silli
Sylvia

Famous People Named Sylvia

Sylvia PlathRenowned American poet and author
Sylvia EarleNoted marine biologist and oceanographer
Sylvia RiveraLGBTQ+ rights activist and influential figure in the Stonewall Uprising
Sylvia KristelDutch actress best known for her role in the "Emmanuelle" film series
Sylvia SidneyTalented American actress from the Golden Age of Hollywood
Sylvia PankhurstProminent suffragette and advocate for women's rights
Sylvia ChangTaiwanese actress, writer, and director
Sylvia LikensTragically known for her victimization in the infamous "The Girl Next Door" case
Sylvia HoeksDutch actress recognized for her role in "Blade Runner 2049"
Sylvia Llewelyn DaviesThe woman who inspired J.M. Barrie's character Wendy Darling in "Peter Pan"

Characters Named Sylvia

Sylvia TrenchJames Bond's love interest in the movie "Dr. No"
Sylvia MarpoleA character from Roald Dahl's novel "Matilda"
Sylvia RosenA character from the TV series "Mad Men"
Sylvia FineFran Fine's mother in the TV show "The Nanny"
Sylvia WeisA character from the movie "In Time"
Sylvia GanushAn antagonist in the horror film "Drag Me to Hell"
Sylvia LoddishA character from Jane Austen's novel "Sense and Sensibility"
Sylvia McFarlandA character from the TV series "One Tree Hill"
SylviaA character from Shakespeare's play "The Two Gentlemen of Verona"
Sylvia St. CroixA character from the musical "Ruthless!"

Other Popular Names Beginning with S

Sydney
Sage
Salma
Skye
Salem
Saylor
Selena
Sierra
Saoirse
Sterling