Sidney
BoyOld English
Sidney is a boy name of Old English origin meaning "Wide water meadow".
About this name
Gender
Boy
Language
Old English
Popularity
13 / 100
Syllables
2
Length
6 letters
Meaning
Wide water meadow
Etymology
Sidney is an English given name derived from the surname, which itself has two different derivations depending on the origins of the family: in some cases a place name, itself from Old English, meaning "wide water meadow", and in others from the French place name "St.
Famous People Named Sidney
- Sidney Poitier — Bahamian and American actor and diplomat (1927–2022)
- Sidney Lumet — American director, producer and screenwriter (1924–2011)
- Sidney Sheldon — American writer (1917–2007)
- Sidney Altman — Canadian American molecular biologist (1939-2022)
- Sidney Paget — English illustrator
Frequently Asked Questions About Sidney
What does the name Sidney mean?
Sidney means "Wide water meadow", and is of Old English origin.
What is the origin of the name Sidney?
Sidney originates from Old English.
Is Sidney a boy or girl name?
Sidney is typically used as a boy name.
Are there famous people named Sidney?
Yes — notable people named Sidney include Sidney Poitier (Bahamian and American actor and diplomat, 1927–2022), Sidney Lumet (American director, 1924–2011), Sidney Sheldon (American writer, 1917–2007), Sidney Altman (Canadian American molecular biologist, 1939-2022) and Sidney Paget (English illustrator).
Last updated: June 2026