Sigourney: a female name of Old French origin meaning "It is a female given name derived from a surname from the French “Sigournay”".It derives from the Old French word "SIGOURNAY".
Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Sigourney, drawn to its Old French heritage and beautiful significance: "It is a female given name derived from a surname from the French “Sigournay”". 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 Sigourney
Quick facts about Sigourney
Origin
Old French, Literature
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
It is a female given name derived from a surname from the French “Sigournay”. Susan Alexandra Weaver began using the name “Sigourney Weaver” in 1963 after a minor character (Sigourney Howard) in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, “The Great Gatsby.” Sigourney is also a city in Keokuk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 2,059 at the 2010 census. The name of the town is in honor of Lydia Huntley Sigourney, a famous American poet during the early and mid 19th century.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
SIGOURNAY
How to Pronounce Sigourney
Sigourney is pronounced /sɪˈɡɔːr.ni/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Sig-ourney
Say it like: "SIG-OURNEY"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
Sigourney is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
english
Frequently Asked Questions About Sigourney
What does the name Sigourney mean?
Sigourney means "It is a female given name derived from a surname from the French “Sigournay”. Susan Alexandra Weaver began using the name “Sigourney Weaver” in 1963 after a minor character (Sigourney Howard) in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, “The Great Gatsby.” Sigourney is also a city in Keokuk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 2,059 at the 2010 census. The name of the town is in honor of Lydia Huntley Sigourney, a famous American poet during the early and mid 19th century.". The name comes from SIGOURNAY. This old french name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Sigourney for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "It is a female given name derived from a surname from the French “Sigournay”. Susan Alexandra Weaver began using the name “Sigourney Weaver” in 1963 after a minor character (Sigourney Howard) in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, “The Great Gatsby.” Sigourney is also a city in Keokuk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 2,059 at the 2010 census. The name of the town is in honor of Lydia Huntley Sigourney, a famous American poet during the early and mid 19th century." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Sigourney 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 Sigourney?
Sigourney has old french and literature origins. The name traces back to SIGOURNAY. The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The old french meaning "It is a female given name derived from a surname from the French “Sigournay”. Susan Alexandra Weaver began using the name “Sigourney Weaver” in 1963 after a minor character (Sigourney Howard) in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, “The Great Gatsby.” Sigourney is also a city in Keokuk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 2,059 at the 2010 census. The name of the town is in honor of Lydia Huntley Sigourney, a famous American poet during the early and mid 19th century." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Sigourney a boy or girl name?
Sigourney is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In old french tradition, Sigourney has historically been given to girls. The meaning "It is a female given name derived from a surname from the French “Sigournay”. Susan Alexandra Weaver began using the name “Sigourney Weaver” in 1963 after a minor character (Sigourney Howard) in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, “The Great Gatsby.” Sigourney is also a city in Keokuk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 2,059 at the 2010 census. The name of the town is in honor of Lydia Huntley Sigourney, a famous American poet during the early and mid 19th century." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Sigourney?
Sigourney is pronounced "/sɪˈɡɔːr.ni/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Sigourney is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with old french names, listening to a native speaker say Sigourney can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Sigourney?
Sigourney is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Sigourney gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Sigourney's popularity may vary between old french communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "It is a female given name derived from a surname from the French “Sigournay”. Susan Alexandra Weaver began using the name “Sigourney Weaver” in 1963 after a minor character (Sigourney Howard) in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, “The Great Gatsby.” Sigourney is also a city in Keokuk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 2,059 at the 2010 census. The name of the town is in honor of Lydia Huntley Sigourney, a famous American poet during the early and mid 19th century." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Sigourney holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Sigourney commonly used?
Sigourney is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though old french in origin, Sigourney found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "It is a female given name derived from a surname from the French “Sigournay”. Susan Alexandra Weaver began using the name “Sigourney Weaver” in 1963 after a minor character (Sigourney Howard) in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, “The Great Gatsby.” Sigourney is also a city in Keokuk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 2,059 at the 2010 census. The name of the town is in honor of Lydia Huntley Sigourney, a famous American poet during the early and mid 19th century." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Sigourney into their naming traditions. A child named Sigourney 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, Sigourney 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.