Semiramis

Girl Name
Pronunciation:/ˈsɛm.ɪˌræ.mɪs/

Semiramis: a female name of Akkadian (Assyrian) origin meaning "This name derives from the Akkadian (Assyrian) “Sammur-Amat". It derives from the Akkadian (Assyrian) word "Sammur-amat".

The name Semiramis carries a rich history rooted in Akkadian (Assyrian) culture. Derived from "Sammur-amat", this feminine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Akkadian (Assyrian) “Sammur-Amat. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Akkadian (Assyrian)-speaking communities.

Quick Facts About Semiramis

Quick facts about Semiramis
OriginAkkadian (Assyrian)
GenderGirl name
PopularityUncommon

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 Akkadian (Assyrian) “Sammur-Amat.” Semiramis (Shamiram) was the Assyrian queen of Shamshi-Adad V, King of Assyria and ruler of the Neo Assyrian Empire, and its regent for four years until her son Adad-nirari III came of age. Various places in Assyria and throughout Mesopotamia as a whole, Medea, Persia, the Levant, Asia Minor, Arabia, and the Caucasus bore Semiramis’s name, but slightly changed in the Middle Ages, and an old name of the city of Van was Shamiramagerd. The indigenous Assyrians of Iraq, northeast Syria, southeast Turkey, and north-west Iran still name female children Semiramis.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

Sammur-amat

How to Pronounce Semiramis

Semiramis is pronounced /ˈsɛm.ɪˌræ.mɪs/

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Sem-ir-am-is
  2. Say it like: "SEM-IR-AM-IS"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Semiramis enjoys international appeal, used in 5 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, catalan, dutch, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishcatalandutchlatingerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Semiramis
What does the name Semiramis mean?
Semiramis means "This name derives from the Akkadian (Assyrian) “Sammur-Amat.” Semiramis (Shamiram) was the Assyrian queen of Shamshi-Adad V, King of Assyria and ruler of the Neo Assyrian Empire, and its regent for four years until her son Adad-nirari III came of age. Various places in Assyria and throughout Mesopotamia as a whole, Medea, Persia, the Levant, Asia Minor, Arabia, and the Caucasus bore Semiramis’s name, but slightly changed in the Middle Ages, and an old name of the city of Van was Shamiramagerd. The indigenous Assyrians of Iraq, northeast Syria, southeast Turkey, and north-west Iran still name female children Semiramis.". The name comes from Sammur-amat. In its original form, the name derives from Semī́ramis (Σεμῑ́ρᾰμῐς). This akkadian (assyrian) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Semiramis for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Akkadian (Assyrian) “Sammur-Amat.” Semiramis (Shamiram) was the Assyrian queen of Shamshi-Adad V, King of Assyria and ruler of the Neo Assyrian Empire, and its regent for four years until her son Adad-nirari III came of age. Various places in Assyria and throughout Mesopotamia as a whole, Medea, Persia, the Levant, Asia Minor, Arabia, and the Caucasus bore Semiramis’s name, but slightly changed in the Middle Ages, and an old name of the city of Van was Shamiramagerd. The indigenous Assyrians of Iraq, northeast Syria, southeast Turkey, and north-west Iran still name female children Semiramis." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Semiramis 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 Semiramis?
Semiramis is a akkadian (assyrian) name. The name traces back to Sammur-amat. The original form Semī́ramis (Σεμῑ́ρᾰμῐς) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its akkadian (assyrian) roots, Semiramis spread to become common in english, catalan, dutch, latin and other cultures. The akkadian (assyrian) meaning "This name derives from the Akkadian (Assyrian) “Sammur-Amat.” Semiramis (Shamiram) was the Assyrian queen of Shamshi-Adad V, King of Assyria and ruler of the Neo Assyrian Empire, and its regent for four years until her son Adad-nirari III came of age. Various places in Assyria and throughout Mesopotamia as a whole, Medea, Persia, the Levant, Asia Minor, Arabia, and the Caucasus bore Semiramis’s name, but slightly changed in the Middle Ages, and an old name of the city of Van was Shamiramagerd. The indigenous Assyrians of Iraq, northeast Syria, southeast Turkey, and north-west Iran still name female children Semiramis." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Semiramis a boy or girl name?
Semiramis is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In akkadian (assyrian) tradition, Semiramis has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Akkadian (Assyrian) “Sammur-Amat.” Semiramis (Shamiram) was the Assyrian queen of Shamshi-Adad V, King of Assyria and ruler of the Neo Assyrian Empire, and its regent for four years until her son Adad-nirari III came of age. Various places in Assyria and throughout Mesopotamia as a whole, Medea, Persia, the Levant, Asia Minor, Arabia, and the Caucasus bore Semiramis’s name, but slightly changed in the Middle Ages, and an old name of the city of Van was Shamiramagerd. The indigenous Assyrians of Iraq, northeast Syria, southeast Turkey, and north-west Iran still name female children Semiramis." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Semiramis?
Semiramis is pronounced "/ˈsɛm.ɪˌræ.mɪs/". This pronunciation follows ak language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Semiramis is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, catalan, dutch, 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 akkadian (assyrian) names, listening to a native speaker say Semiramis can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Sammur-amat influences how Semiramis sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Semiramis?
Semiramis is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Semiramis gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Semiramis's popularity may vary between akkadian (assyrian) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Akkadian (Assyrian) “Sammur-Amat.” Semiramis (Shamiram) was the Assyrian queen of Shamshi-Adad V, King of Assyria and ruler of the Neo Assyrian Empire, and its regent for four years until her son Adad-nirari III came of age. Various places in Assyria and throughout Mesopotamia as a whole, Medea, Persia, the Levant, Asia Minor, Arabia, and the Caucasus bore Semiramis’s name, but slightly changed in the Middle Ages, and an old name of the city of Van was Shamiramagerd. The indigenous Assyrians of Iraq, northeast Syria, southeast Turkey, and north-west Iran still name female children Semiramis." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Semiramis holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Semiramis commonly used?
Semiramis spans multiple cultures, including english, catalan, dutch, and 2 other traditions. Though akkadian (assyrian) in origin, Semiramis found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Semiramis, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Akkadian (Assyrian) “Sammur-Amat.” Semiramis (Shamiram) was the Assyrian queen of Shamshi-Adad V, King of Assyria and ruler of the Neo Assyrian Empire, and its regent for four years until her son Adad-nirari III came of age. Various places in Assyria and throughout Mesopotamia as a whole, Medea, Persia, the Levant, Asia Minor, Arabia, and the Caucasus bore Semiramis’s name, but slightly changed in the Middle Ages, and an old name of the city of Van was Shamiramagerd. The indigenous Assyrians of Iraq, northeast Syria, southeast Turkey, and north-west Iran still name female children Semiramis." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Semiramis into their naming traditions. A child named Semiramis 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, Semiramis 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.

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