Samantha: a female name of Hebrew origin meaning "Samantha is a feminine given name".It derives from the Hebrew word (SHEMU'EL) (ánthos).
Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Samantha, drawn to its Hebrew heritage and beautiful significance: "Samantha is a feminine given name". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.
Quick Facts About Samantha
Quick facts about Samantha
Origin
Hebrew, Greek
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Uncommon
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
Samantha is a feminine given name. It was first recorded in the 18th-century in New England, but its etymology is unknown. A suggested origin is from the masculine given name Samuel from the root “sh’ma alohim > sh‘ma ‘êl > shemû’êl” and the Greek “ánthos (ἄνθος),” meaning “flower.” A variant of this speculation is that it may have been a feminine form of Samuel with the addition of the already existing female name Anthea. Other suggestions include the Aramaic noun “šemʿanta,” meaning “listener.” Samantha was out of fashion in the United States for the majority of the first half of the 20th-century but reappeared among the top 1,000 names for girls in 1958 when it ranked in 998th position, and 1959 when it listed in 993rd place. It originated in America in the 18th-century but was reasonably uncommon until 1964 when it was popularized by the main character on the television show ‘Bewitched.’
Etymology & Details
Name Root
(SHEMU'EL) (ánthos)
How to Pronounce Samantha
Samantha is pronounced /səˈmæn.θə/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Sam-antha
Say it like: "SAM-ANTHA"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Samantha enjoys international appeal, used in 10 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, spanish, italian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
Samantha means "Samantha is a feminine given name. It was first recorded in the 18th-century in New England, but its etymology is unknown. A suggested origin is from the masculine given name Samuel from the root “sh’ma alohim > sh‘ma ‘êl > shemû’êl” and the Greek “ánthos (ἄνθος),” meaning “flower.” A variant of this speculation is that it may have been a feminine form of Samuel with the addition of the already existing female name Anthea. Other suggestions include the Aramaic noun “šemʿanta,” meaning “listener.” Samantha was out of fashion in the United States for the majority of the first half of the 20th-century but reappeared among the top 1,000 names for girls in 1958 when it ranked in 998th position, and 1959 when it listed in 993rd place. It originated in America in the 18th-century but was reasonably uncommon until 1964 when it was popularized by the main character on the television show ‘Bewitched.’". The name comes from (SHEMU'EL) (ánthos). In its original form, the name derives from Shemû'êl (שְׁמוּאֵל)� ánthos (ἄνθος). This hebrew name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Samantha for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "Samantha is a feminine given name. It was first recorded in the 18th-century in New England, but its etymology is unknown. A suggested origin is from the masculine given name Samuel from the root “sh’ma alohim > sh‘ma ‘êl > shemû’êl” and the Greek “ánthos (ἄνθος),” meaning “flower.” A variant of this speculation is that it may have been a feminine form of Samuel with the addition of the already existing female name Anthea. Other suggestions include the Aramaic noun “šemʿanta,” meaning “listener.” Samantha was out of fashion in the United States for the majority of the first half of the 20th-century but reappeared among the top 1,000 names for girls in 1958 when it ranked in 998th position, and 1959 when it listed in 993rd place. It originated in America in the 18th-century but was reasonably uncommon until 1964 when it was popularized by the main character on the television show ‘Bewitched.’" as a quality they hope to see in their child. Samantha offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices.
What is the origin of the name Samantha?
Samantha has hebrew and greek origins. The name traces back to (SHEMU'EL) (ánthos). The original form Shemû'êl (שְׁמוּאֵל)� ánthos (ἄνθος) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its hebrew roots, Samantha spread to become common in english, spanish, italian, norwegian and other cultures. The hebrew meaning "Samantha is a feminine given name. It was first recorded in the 18th-century in New England, but its etymology is unknown. A suggested origin is from the masculine given name Samuel from the root “sh’ma alohim > sh‘ma ‘êl > shemû’êl” and the Greek “ánthos (ἄνθος),” meaning “flower.” A variant of this speculation is that it may have been a feminine form of Samuel with the addition of the already existing female name Anthea. Other suggestions include the Aramaic noun “šemʿanta,” meaning “listener.” Samantha was out of fashion in the United States for the majority of the first half of the 20th-century but reappeared among the top 1,000 names for girls in 1958 when it ranked in 998th position, and 1959 when it listed in 993rd place. It originated in America in the 18th-century but was reasonably uncommon until 1964 when it was popularized by the main character on the television show ‘Bewitched.’" reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Samantha a boy or girl name?
Samantha is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In hebrew tradition, Samantha has historically been given to girls. The meaning "Samantha is a feminine given name. It was first recorded in the 18th-century in New England, but its etymology is unknown. A suggested origin is from the masculine given name Samuel from the root “sh’ma alohim > sh‘ma ‘êl > shemû’êl” and the Greek “ánthos (ἄνθος),” meaning “flower.” A variant of this speculation is that it may have been a feminine form of Samuel with the addition of the already existing female name Anthea. Other suggestions include the Aramaic noun “šemʿanta,” meaning “listener.” Samantha was out of fashion in the United States for the majority of the first half of the 20th-century but reappeared among the top 1,000 names for girls in 1958 when it ranked in 998th position, and 1959 when it listed in 993rd place. It originated in America in the 18th-century but was reasonably uncommon until 1964 when it was popularized by the main character on the television show ‘Bewitched.’" carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Samantha?
Samantha is pronounced "/səˈmæn.θə/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Samantha is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, spanish, italian, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Samantha can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name. The name's root (SHEMU'EL) (ánthos) influences how Samantha sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Samantha?
Samantha is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Samantha gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Samantha's popularity may vary between hebrew communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "Samantha is a feminine given name. It was first recorded in the 18th-century in New England, but its etymology is unknown. A suggested origin is from the masculine given name Samuel from the root “sh’ma alohim > sh‘ma ‘êl > shemû’êl” and the Greek “ánthos (ἄνθος),” meaning “flower.” A variant of this speculation is that it may have been a feminine form of Samuel with the addition of the already existing female name Anthea. Other suggestions include the Aramaic noun “šemʿanta,” meaning “listener.” Samantha was out of fashion in the United States for the majority of the first half of the 20th-century but reappeared among the top 1,000 names for girls in 1958 when it ranked in 998th position, and 1959 when it listed in 993rd place. It originated in America in the 18th-century but was reasonably uncommon until 1964 when it was popularized by the main character on the television show ‘Bewitched.’" likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Samantha holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Samantha commonly used?
Samantha spans multiple cultures, including english, spanish, italian, and 7 other traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Samantha found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Samantha, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "Samantha is a feminine given name. It was first recorded in the 18th-century in New England, but its etymology is unknown. A suggested origin is from the masculine given name Samuel from the root “sh’ma alohim > sh‘ma ‘êl > shemû’êl” and the Greek “ánthos (ἄνθος),” meaning “flower.” A variant of this speculation is that it may have been a feminine form of Samuel with the addition of the already existing female name Anthea. Other suggestions include the Aramaic noun “šemʿanta,” meaning “listener.” Samantha was out of fashion in the United States for the majority of the first half of the 20th-century but reappeared among the top 1,000 names for girls in 1958 when it ranked in 998th position, and 1959 when it listed in 993rd place. It originated in America in the 18th-century but was reasonably uncommon until 1964 when it was popularized by the main character on the television show ‘Bewitched.’" carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Samantha into their naming traditions. A child named Samantha will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Samantha is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.