Home › Baby Names Directory › Sailor
Sailor
Pronounced SAY-ler /ˈseɪ.lər/Low
Meaning: One who sails, a marinerLow
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Sailor derives from the Old English and Middle English word for one who sails a ship, ultimately from Old French sailleor. As an occupational term it dates to the Middle Ages. As a given name it began appearing in the late 20th century, initially as a novelty choice.
Sailor has grown as a name in the 21st century, particularly for girls, fitting the trend of adventurous, nature-connected occupational names. Its nautical imagery evokes freedom and the open sea.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Sailor Brinkley Cook (1998–present)American model, daughter of supermodel Christie Brinkley
If you like Sailor…
Explore names like Sailor
Frequently Asked
What does Sailor mean?
Sailor means one who sails, an occupational name for a mariner, evoking the open sea and the spirit of adventure.
Is Sailor a girl's name?
Sailor was made popular as a girl's name when model Christie Brinkley named her daughter Sailor in 1998. It is used for both sexes.
How do you pronounce Sailor?
Sailor is pronounced SAY-ler, with two syllables.
What names are similar to Sailor?
Similar nautical names include Saylor, Marina, Navy, and River.