Shoshanna

Pronounced: shoh-SHAH-nuh

Meaning: Lily

Gender: Girl
Origin: Hebrew
Language: English (Modern)

What does Shoshanna mean?

Shoshanna comes from the Hebrew שׁוֹשַׁנָּה (shōshanā), a word for the lily, a flower that has long been associated with purity and beauty. In many languages the same original word evolved into forms such as Susannah and Susanna, so Shoshanna sits in a family of names tied to a floral image.

The tone of Shoshanna is gently lyrical and distinctly feminine. It feels both classic and slightly exotic in English usage, suggesting warmth, elegance and a natural, floral charm without being overly fussy. The name can be soft in sound while still making a clear, memorable impression.

❤️ Why Parents Choose This Name

It has a clear, uplifting meaning connected to the lily, giving a pleasant natural image.
It feels classic yet uncommon in many English-speaking areas, offering familiarity without being overused.
The name offers easy, affectionate nicknames for everyday use.
It pairs well with a wide range of middle names, from traditional to modern.
It connects to a long cultural and literary history through related forms like Susannah.

Historical Context

The name originates in Hebrew, where שׁוֹשַׁנָּה (shōshanā) referred to a lily or similar flower. The word appears in Biblical Hebrew and was used both as a common noun and as a personal name. Through translation and cultural contact the name moved into Greek and Latin forms, notably as Susanna and Susannah, which became established in Christian Europe from medieval times onward.

Shoshanna as a spelling preserved closer ties to the Hebrew original and has been used in Jewish communities for many centuries. In the modern period it entered wider English usage, especially in the 20th century, sometimes chosen to emphasise heritage or the floral meaning. Variants and cognates such as Susanna, Susannah, Suzanne, Zuzana and Zuzanna show how the name adapted to different languages while keeping the same basic root.