Senna: a unisex name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus".It derives from the Greek word "sébas > sebastós > SEBASTIANUS".
Senna is a both name that means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus". Its Greek origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.
Quick Facts About Senna
Quick facts about Senna
Origin
Greek
Gender
Unisex
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 Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
sébas > sebastós > SEBASTIANUS
How to Pronounce Senna
Senna is pronounced /ˈsɛn.ə/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Sen-na
Say it like: "SEN-NA"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Senna is predominantly used in portuguese (brazilian) speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
portuguese (brazilian)
Frequently Asked Questions About Senna
What does the name Senna mean?
Senna means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome.". The name comes from sébas > sebastós > SEBASTIANUS. In its original form, the name derives from sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Senna for children of any gender often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Senna's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Senna?
Senna is a greek name. The name traces back to sébas > sebastós > SEBASTIANUS. The original form sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to portuguese (brazilian) naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Senna a boy or girl name?
Senna is a unisex name, given to both boys and girls. Unisex names have grown more popular since the 1990s, with parents choosing them for flexibility and modern appeal. Senna works equally well for any child, letting the person's identity shape how the name feels rather than the other way around. In greek tradition, Senna has historically been given to children of either gender. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome." carries well for any child, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Senna?
Senna is pronounced "/ˈsɛn.ə/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Senna is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Senna can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root sébas > sebastós > SEBASTIANUS influences how Senna sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Senna?
Senna is commonly used as a nickname for Sebastian. Being a shortened version of Sebastian, Senna offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Sebastian go by Senna throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In greek cultures, using Senna as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among people of any gender, though some now use Senna as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Senna on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Senna?
Senna is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Senna offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Senna's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among unisex names, Senna holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Senna commonly used?
Senna is used primarily in portuguese (brazilian) naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Senna found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Senna into their naming traditions. A child named Senna 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, Senna is given to children of any gender, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.