Sophie

Sophie is a feminine given name of Greek origin. It derives from sophia, meaning wisdom. In many languages it has developed into a full given name in its own right, while in others it began as a diminutive form of Sophia. The spelling Sophie is common in English and French contexts, with variant spellings such as Sofie, Sofia, and Sofiya used worldwide.

Across Europe and the English-speaking world, Sophie has been widely used for centuries, with continued popularity into modern times. The name appears in many cultures with local variants, reflecting linguistic traditions and naming trends. It is frequently chosen for its simple, melodic sound and positive meaning.

Notable people named Sophie include Sophie Germain (1776–1831), a French mathematician known for work in number theory and elasticity; Sophie Scholl (1921–1943), a German student and anti-Nazi activist; Sophie Calle (born 1953), a French writer and photographer; Sophie Marceau (born 1966), a French actress; and Sophie Turner (born 1996), an English actress known for her role in Game of Thrones.

In fiction, the name Sophie appears in various works and genres. A well-known example is the protagonist in Jostein Gaarder’s Sophie's World, a novel that explores the history of philosophy. The name is commonly used for characters in children’s literature, film, and television, reflecting its broad appeal.

Related names include Sofia/Sofía and Sophia, with local spellings reflecting linguistic traditions. Diminutives or variants such as Soph and Sophy are also encountered in different regions.