Sava: a male name of Aramaic origin meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “sebâ’,” meaning “old man, drunkard, drunken, drink heavily, heavy drinkers".It derives from the Aramaic word "sebâ' > sava'".
Sava has maintained its appeal as a masculine name in modern times while preserving its Aramaic roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Hebrew “sebâ’,” meaning “old man, drunkard, drunken, drink heavily, heavy drinkers" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Sava
Quick facts about Sava
Origin
Aramaic
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately popular
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
This name derives from the Hebrew “sebâ’,” meaning “old man, drunkard, drunken, drink heavily, heavy drinkers.” Saint Sabbas the Sanctified (439–532), a Cappadocian-Greek monk, priest, and saint, lived mainly in Palaestina Prima. He was the founder of several monasteries, most notably the one known as Mar Saba.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
sebâ' > sava'
Other Scripts
Serbian / Bulgarian / Ukrainian (Сава)
How to Pronounce Sava
Sava is pronounced /ˈsɑː.və/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Sav-a
Say it like: "SAV-A"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across ukrainian, serbian, and bulgarian speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
ukrainianserbianbulgarian
Frequently Asked Questions About Sava
What does the name Sava mean?
Sava means "This name derives from the Hebrew “sebâ’,” meaning “old man, drunkard, drunken, drink heavily, heavy drinkers.” Saint Sabbas the Sanctified (439–532), a Cappadocian-Greek monk, priest, and saint, lived mainly in Palaestina Prima. He was the founder of several monasteries, most notably the one known as Mar Saba.". The name comes from sebâ' > sava'. In its original form, the name derives from sebâ' (סַבָּא) Sábbas (Σάββας). This aramaic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Sava for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “sebâ’,” meaning “old man, drunkard, drunken, drink heavily, heavy drinkers.” Saint Sabbas the Sanctified (439–532), a Cappadocian-Greek monk, priest, and saint, lived mainly in Palaestina Prima. He was the founder of several monasteries, most notably the one known as Mar Saba." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Sava's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Sava?
Sava is a aramaic name. The name traces back to sebâ' > sava'. The original form sebâ' (סַבָּא) Sábbas (Σάββας) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Sava is written as Serbian / Bulgarian / Ukrainian (Сава). From its aramaic roots, Sava spread to become common in ukrainian, serbian, bulgarian. The aramaic meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “sebâ’,” meaning “old man, drunkard, drunken, drink heavily, heavy drinkers.” Saint Sabbas the Sanctified (439–532), a Cappadocian-Greek monk, priest, and saint, lived mainly in Palaestina Prima. He was the founder of several monasteries, most notably the one known as Mar Saba." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Sava a boy or girl name?
Sava is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In aramaic tradition, Sava has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “sebâ’,” meaning “old man, drunkard, drunken, drink heavily, heavy drinkers.” Saint Sabbas the Sanctified (439–532), a Cappadocian-Greek monk, priest, and saint, lived mainly in Palaestina Prima. He was the founder of several monasteries, most notably the one known as Mar Saba." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Sava?
Sava is pronounced "/ˈsɑː.və/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Serbian / Bulgarian / Ukrainian (Сава), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Sava is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in ukrainian, serbian, bulgarian, 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 aramaic names, listening to a native speaker say Sava can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root sebâ' > sava' influences how Sava sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Sava?
Sava is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Sava offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Sava's popularity may vary between aramaic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “sebâ’,” meaning “old man, drunkard, drunken, drink heavily, heavy drinkers.” Saint Sabbas the Sanctified (439–532), a Cappadocian-Greek monk, priest, and saint, lived mainly in Palaestina Prima. He was the founder of several monasteries, most notably the one known as Mar Saba." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Sava holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Sava commonly used?
Sava is common in ukrainian and serbian and bulgarian naming traditions. Though aramaic in origin, Sava found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Sava, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “sebâ’,” meaning “old man, drunkard, drunken, drink heavily, heavy drinkers.” Saint Sabbas the Sanctified (439–532), a Cappadocian-Greek monk, priest, and saint, lived mainly in Palaestina Prima. He was the founder of several monasteries, most notably the one known as Mar Saba." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Sava into their naming traditions. A child named Sava 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, Sava is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Sava?
Sava carries associations with RELIGION (SAINTS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “sebâ’,” meaning “old man, drunkard, drunken, drink heavily, heavy drinkers.” Saint Sabbas the Sanctified (439–532), a Cappadocian-Greek monk, priest, and saint, lived mainly in Palaestina Prima. He was the founder of several monasteries, most notably the one known as Mar Saba." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In aramaic culture, where Sava originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Sava sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Sava often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In ukrainian communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.