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Origin and meaning of the name Sawai

What is the origin of the name Sawai?

The name "Sawai" is of Thai origin. It is a title that was used by several kings in the historic Thai kingdoms, particularly the Kings of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods. The term "Sawai" means "Great King" or "Majestic King". However, as a first name, it is more commonly found among males of Thai-Chinese descent, where it may have been given to honor these historic figures or as a sign of respect for them.

Learn more about the origin of the name Sawai

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Sawai

The name Sawai is of Thai origin and holds significant historical significance within the Chakri Dynasty of Thailand. It was most notably used by King Sawai Pokphon (ruled 1733-1767) who was the second monarch of this dynasty. The name Sawai can be translated to "old" or "ancient," reflecting the respect and reverence for the long lineage of the ruler. In contemporary Thai society, the name Sawai is occasionally used as a given name, but its roots remain deeply entrenched in the country's royal history.

Character traits associated with the name Sawai

The name Sawai is often associated with individuals who possess strong leadership qualities and a deep sense of wisdom. They are frequently respected and admired for their strategic thinking and decision-making abilities. Sawais are often decisive, yet thoughtful, balancing the need for action with careful consideration. They demonstrate patience and resilience in the face of adversity, and are known for their ability to inspire and motivate those around them. Loyalty and commitment are core values for a person named Sawai, making them reliable allies and friends. They have a keen intellect and a thirst for knowledge, which they often apply to improving their communities and the world at large. These traits make a person named Sawai not only a respected leader but also an influential figure in their circle of influence.

Popularity of the name Sawai

The name Sawai is predominantly popular within certain communities, particularly those of Indian descent. In India, it's notably used in the region of Rajasthan, where it has historical significance as a royal title. However, outside these regions and communities, its usage is relatively rare globally. The name Sawai, meaning 'small' or 'little' in Sanskrit, carries a unique cultural connotation that adds to its popularity within the specified communities. Its rarity elsewhere contributes to its distinctiveness, making it an interesting choice for parents seeking a less common name for their child.

Famous people with the name Sawai

Sawai Jaisingh II (1688-1743) was a prominent Rajput ruler and the founder of Jaipur City in India. Known for his commitment to astronomy, he commissioned the construction of the Jantar Mantar observatory in 1728. Sawai Man Singh I (ruled 1580–1624) was a Maharaja of Amer who played a crucial role during the Battle of Haldighati against the Mughal Empire under Emperor Akbar. Sawai Madhopur, a city in India's Rajasthan state, is named after Sawai Madho Singh I (ruled 1750-1768), who was a prominent ruler in the region. These notable figures with the first name 'Sawai' have left significant impacts on the history and culture of India.

Variations of the name Sawai

The name Sawai, which originates from Sanskrit, has several variations across different cultures and regions. In Thai, it is pronounced as "Sawat" or "Sawasdi", and it means "six". However, in Hindi and other Indian languages, the name Sawai translates to "The Owner of Six", due to its association with the numeral six. In Arabic script, it may be written as "سوائي" (Suwai). The Persian form of this name is "Savai" or "Saway". The name's variations also extend to regions such as Nepal, where it is often spelled as Sawaj. In each instance, the name carries a sense of power and authority due to its association with six, a number considered significant in many cultures.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 15 June 2025

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