Sam

Sam is a short form of the Hebrew name Samuel, from Shemuel, meaning either "name of God" or "heard by God," combining the elements shem (name) or shama (to hear) with El (God). It also serves as a diminutive of Samantha, a name of disputed origin that became popular in the English-speaking world from the 18th century onward. The name gained widespread cultural familiarity through biblical figures, most notably the prophet and judge Samuel in the Hebrew scriptures. Related forms include Sammy, Samuel, and Samantha.