Sally is a name of English origin that has been used for centuries. It is a diminutive form of the name Sarah, which means "princess" or "noblewoman." The name Sally was first popularized in the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance period in England.
The name Sally became particularly popular during the Victorian era in the 19th century. During this time, it was often used as a nickname for girls named Sarah or Sallyann. In some cases, Sally was also used independently of its association with Sarah, reflecting the growing trend towards shorter, more familiar names.
Today, Sally is still widely recognized and used around the world. It has been popular in various forms throughout history, such as Salome, Sallie, and even Salli. Despite its origins, Sally is not exclusive to any particular culture or nationality. Instead, it is seen as a classic, timeless name that transcends boundaries.
Overall, the name Sally carries with it a sense of familiarity and warmth. Its meaning and history reflect its enduring popularity and appeal among parents seeking a traditional yet distinct name for their child.
The name Sally reached its peak popularity during the late 1930s to early 1940s, with over 4000 births per year recorded between 1937 and 1944. However, there has been a significant decline in recent years, with fewer than 250 births per year since 2008. Overall, the name Sally has been given to 204,799 babies over the period from 1880 to 2023.