sally

Sally is a feminine given name, often used as a standalone name in addition to its role as a diminutive form of Sarah. The form traces to Hebrew name Sarah, meaning princess, and entered English usage via Old French and early modern English variants. Over time, Sally developed into a popular nickname that can be used independently in many English-speaking countries.

Variants include Sallie, Sal, and Salley, with Sallie historically common in the United States in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The name reached its mid-20th-century peak in some regions but remains in occasional use today, often chosen for its simple, cheerful sound and classic heritage.

Notable people named Sally include Sally Ride (1951–2012), the American astronaut and the first American woman in space; Sally Field (born 1946), an American actress and two-time Academy Award winner; Sally Hawkins (born 1976), an English actress; and Sally Hemings (c. 1773–1835), an enslaved woman associated with Thomas Jefferson. Contemporary figures include writer Sally Rooney (born 1991).

In culture, Sally is a common character name in literature and film. The character Sally in Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas is a well-known example, and the name has appeared in songs and stage works, reinforcing its perception as a friendly, approachable name.