Susannah

What does Susannah mean?

Susannah comes from the Hebrew שׁוֹשַׁנָּה (Shoshannah), which means lily. The image is that of the white, elegant flower, often associated with purity and beauty in ancient sources.

The name carries a gentle, classic tone. It feels both timeless and warm, with a soft sound that lends a quietly refined presence. While it is unmistakably traditional, forms such as Susanna and Suzanne give it international familiarity, and modern parents often appreciate its floral and slightly vintage character.

Historical Context

Susannah traces back to the Hebrew שׁוֹשַׁנָּה (Shoshannah), recorded in biblical texts and later adopted into Greek and Latin translations. Over centuries it entered various European languages, appearing in forms such as Susanna in Italian and Scandinavian usage and Suzanne in French.

In English it has been fashionable at several points, especially in the 17th and 18th centuries and again in the 20th century, often alongside other floral and biblical names. The spelling with an extra n, as in Susannah, is an established English variant that preserves a slightly old-fashioned, literary flavour. Where multiple forms coexist, parents choose between the pared-back Susanna, the French-influenced Suzanne, and the more lyrical Hebrew form Shoshana, each carrying a subtly different cultural resonance.

Popularity of Susannah over time

What do parents think of Susannah?