What does Sage mean and where does it come from?
Sage is a name of English origin that has been used as both a first name and a surname. Its use as a first name for girls has risen in popularity in recent decades, reflecting a broader trend of nature-inspired names. It emphasizes wisdom and health, drawing on both its herbal origins and its meanin
Cultural significance
Sage has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of wise person, from the herb sage, known for its medicinal properties..
Peak popularity
Reached #223 in 2020 — currently #143 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Sage?
Sage works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Sage Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Sage Rose
Floral · soft ending
Sage Claire
French influence · crisp
Sage Jane
Literary · strong
Sage Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Sage right now?
Holding steady — currently #143 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #143 | 1,958 | stable · -3% births |
| 2022 | #143 | 2,013 | ▲ up 34 · +20% births |
| 2021 | #177 | 1,674 | ▲ up 46 · +29% births |
| 2020 | #223 | 1,301 | ▲ up 146 · +47% births |
| 2015 | #369 | 886 | ▲ up 102 · +38% births |
| 2010 | #471 | 642 | ▼ down 109 · -26% births |
| 2005 | #362 | 868 | ▲ up 127 · +56% births |
| 2000 | #489 | 557 | ▲ up 229 · +93% births |
| 1995 | #718 | 288 | ▲ up 658 · +150% births |
| 1990 | #1376 | 115 | ▲ up 915 · +161% births |
| 1985 | #2291 | 44 | ▲ up 379 · +26% births |
| 1980 | #2670 | 35 | ▼ down 337 |
| 1975 | #2333 | 35 | ▲ up 1438 · +119% births |
| 1970 | #3771 | 16 | — |
The story of Sage
Sage is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1963. A total of 32,845 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3771 in 1970 to #143 in 2023. Sage is used for both genders: 64% female and 36% male.
Names that peaked alongside Sage in 2020:
Sage by decade
Sage peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1920s | 5 | |
| 1960s | 54 | |
| 1970s | 659 | |
| 1980s | 870 | |
| 1990s | 5,596 | |
| 2000s | 10,659 | |
| 2010s ★ | 13,034 | |
| 2020s | 1,968 | |
What are good nicknames for Sage?
What names sound and feel like Sage?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Sage also consider these
Common questions about the name Sage
What does the name Sage mean?
Sage means "Wise person, from the herb sage, known for its medicinal properties." — a name rooted in English tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Sage?
Sage is currently ranked #143 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Sage have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Sage?
Sage originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Sage?
Sage is a one-syllable name pronounced S EY1 JH. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Sage sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Sage flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Sage ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.