Sylvia: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced SIL-vee-uh · 3 syllables
Sylvia means “forest”, from Latin.
Feminine form of a Medieval form of Silvius, from Latin silva (“forest”). In myths, Rhea Silvia was the mother of famous twins Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome. 6th-century saint Silvia was the mother of the pope Gregory the Great.
- Meaning
- forest
- Origin
- Latin
- Pronunciation
- SIL-vee-uh
- US rank (2025)
- #300
- US babies a year
- about 976 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 1930
- Style
- Vintage, Classic
How popular is Sylvia?
Sylvia was the #300 name in the US in 2025, given to 1,017 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 1930.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #300 |
| England & Wales | #643 |
| Scotland | #765 |
| Norway | #490 |
| Canada | #711 |
| Australia | #239 |
How old are people named Sylvia?
Half of US adults named Sylvia are older than 64; most are between 26 and 86. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Sibling names for Sylvia
Names that real brothers and sisters of people named Sylvia have, from family records on Wikidata, most common first.
Names like Sylvia
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
Questions about Sylvia
What does the name Sylvia mean?
Sylvia means “forest”. It comes from Latin.
How do you pronounce Sylvia?
Sylvia is pronounced SIL-vee-uh.
How popular is the name Sylvia?
Sylvia was the #300 name in the US in 2025, given to 1,017 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 1930.
How old are people named Sylvia?
Half of US adults named Sylvia are older than 64. Most are between 26 and 86.