Sonal

Sonal is a feminine given name widely used in India and among South Asian communities around the world. The name is usually interpreted as “golden” or “gold-colored,” reflecting the word sona for gold in Hindi and related languages. It is commonly given to girls and is used across Hindu, Muslim, and secular families.

Etymology and meaning: Sonal derives from the Hindi word sona, meaning gold, with the suffix -al forming an adjective or name. In Sanskrit-influenced usage, it is related to suvarṇa, the term for gold. The name connotes value, beauty, and preciousness.

Usage and distribution: Sonal is most prevalent in India, Nepal, and diaspora communities in North America, the United Kingdom, and the Gulf region. The spelling Sonal is the most common; variant forms include Sonali and Sonalika, which share the same root but have different endings. The name is typically feminine, though naming conventions vary by community.

Notable people and cultural references: The name appears in Indian literature, film, and media as a given name for fictional and real individuals. Like many Indian names, it is adapted to local languages and alphabets, affecting pronunciation and transliteration. Related names include Sonali and other derivatives that share the same root meaning.