Sunniva: Name Meaning, Origin, and Popularity

Pronunciation: soo-NEE-vah
Origin: Norway
gender-female

Emmy Samtani

Emmy Samtani

Emmy is the founder of Kiindred and mother to 3 little ones. Over the last 4 years, she has worked with some of the most credible experts in the parenting space and is a keen contributor on all things parenthood.
Updated on Jul 01, 2025 · 1 min read
Region Origin: Scandinavian, Norwegian
Meaning: Sun gift

Sunniva is a feminine given name with origins rooted in Old Norse, meaning "sun gift." This name is historically associated with Saint Sunniva, a legendary figure who is said to have been a Norwegian saint and the patron saint of the Norwegian city of Bergen. The name carries a sense of brightness and warmth, reflecting its etymological connection to the sun. In contemporary times, Sunniva is appreciated for its unique sound and cultural heritage. While not widely used globally, it is cherished in Scandinavian countries, particularly in Norway, where it continues to evoke a sense of historical and cultural pride. The name Sunniva can also be found in various artistic and literary works, highlighting its enduring appeal across different forms of expression.

Sunniva Name Popularity Data

chat-overall Sunniva is currently #19205 in the popularity of the name rankings.
gender-female Girl: Sunniva is currently #10911 on Kiindred Girl Names
gender-male Overall Nature: Sunniva is currently #8791 on Kiindred Nature Names
gender-female Girl Nature: Sunniva is currently #4956 on Kiindred Girl Nature Names
gender-male Overall Unique: Sunniva is currently #9928 on Kiindred Unique Names
gender-female Girl Unique: Sunniva is currently #5638 on Kiindred Girl Unique Names

Popularity Trend Chart

Source: Social Security Administration

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