IPA Pronunciation

/ˈsoʊ.kɑː/

Say It Like

SOH-kah

Syllables

2

disyllabic

The name Sokha originates from the Khmer language spoken in Cambodia and parts of Southeast Asia. In Khmer, 'Sokha' means 'happiness' or 'well-being,' capturing a sense of joy and positive spirit. This name embodies the cultural emphasis on harmony and contentment prevalent in Southeast Asian traditions.

Cultural Significance of Sokha

In Cambodian culture, names like Sokha are more than identifiers; they are blessings. Naming a child Sokha is to wish them a life filled with happiness and well-being. The name is commonly chosen in hopes that the child embodies joy and brings harmony to the family and community.

Sokha Name Popularity in 2025

Today, Sokha remains a popular unisex name in Cambodia and among Southeast Asian communities worldwide. It is embraced both for its beautiful meaning and cultural roots. While traditional in origin, it fits comfortably in modern settings, making it a timeless choice for many parents.

🎀

Popular Nicknames5

🌍

International Variations10

SokhaSokhaaSokhahSokhaeSokhaahSokhaaaSokhaeahSokhaeaSokahSokaha

Name Energy & Essence

The name Sokha carries the essence of “Happiness” from Southeast Asian (Khmer/Cambodian) tradition. Names beginning with "S" often embody qualities of spirituality, sensitivity, and inner strength.

Symbolism

Sokha symbolizes joy, peace, and well-being. It represents the ideal emotional state and is often associated with positive energy and a harmonious lifestyle.

Cultural Significance

In Cambodian culture, names like Sokha are more than identifiers; they are blessings. Naming a child Sokha is to wish them a life filled with happiness and well-being. The name is commonly chosen in hopes that the child embodies joy and brings harmony to the family and community.

Sokha Heng

Politics

Sokha Heng played a key role in Cambodia's political landscape during the late 20th century, emphasizing peace and community welfare.

  • Prominent Cambodian politician
  • Advocated for social welfare reforms
  • Contributed to post-conflict national rebuilding

Sokha Phim

Arts

Sokha Phim was instrumental in reviving and preserving Khmer classical dance after periods of conflict.

  • Renowned Cambodian classical dancer
  • Preserved traditional Khmer dance forms
  • Performed internationally to promote Cambodian culture

Sokha Meas

Singer

1990s–present

  • Traditional Khmer music
  • Contemporary fusion songs

The Last Khmer ()

Sokha

A resilient young woman navigating life in post-conflict Cambodia, embodying hope and perseverance.

Phnom Penh Diaries ()

Sokha

A journalist uncovering stories of the city’s people, known for her courage and compassion.

Lotus Blossoms ()

Sokha

A dancer striving to preserve traditional arts amidst modernization challenges.

Sokha

🇪🇸spanish

Sokha

🇫🇷french

Sokha

🇮🇹italian

Sokha

🇩🇪german

ソカ (Soka)

🇯🇵japanese

索卡 (Suǒkǎ)

🇨🇳chinese

سوخا

🇸🇦arabic

סוקה

🇮🇱hebrew

Fun Fact About Sokha

The name Sokha is often used in Cambodian traditional songs and literature to symbolize happiness and the ideal state of life, showing its deep cultural resonance beyond just a personal name.

Personality Traits for Sokha

Individuals named Sokha often exude warmth and positivity, reflecting the meaning of their name. They tend to be cheerful, empathetic, and bring a sense of calm and happiness to those around them. Their nature is often nurturing with a deep appreciation for family and cultural values.

What does the name Sokha mean?

Sokha is a Southeast Asian (Khmer/Cambodian) name meaning “Happiness”. The name Sokha originates from the Khmer language spoken in Cambodia and parts of Southeast Asia. In Khmer, 'Sokha' means 'happiness' or 'well-being,' capturing a sense of joy and positive spirit. This name embodies the cultural emphasis on harmony and contentment prevalent in Southeast Asian traditions.

How do you pronounce Sokha?

Sokha is pronounced SOH-kah (IPA: /ˈsoʊ.kɑː/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern disyllabic.

What are nicknames for Sokha?

Popular nicknames for Sokha include: Sok, Soki, Kha, Soky, Soka.

Who are famous people named Sokha?

Famous people named Sokha include: Sokha Heng, Sokha Phim, Sokha Chan, Sokha Meas.

Hello dear readers! Today, I’m excited to share with you a name that truly sings with happiness and cultural depth — Sokha. As a name expert who cherishes the stories behind names, I find Sokha to be a beautiful example of how a simple word can carry so much heart and meaning.

The Meaning and Origin: A Name That Means Happiness Sokha is a unisex name rooted deeply in the Khmer language of Cambodia. It translates directly to 'happiness' or 'well-being,' which instantly tells you how precious this name is to families who choose it. Imagine naming your child something that embodies joy itself — it’s like a blessing in a word.

The Khmer culture, rich with tradition and resilience, often uses names to convey positive wishes and aspirations. Sokha perfectly captures this, symbolizing not just fleeting joy, but a lasting state of contentment and harmony. It reflects a deep cultural belief in the importance of emotional and spiritual well-being.

Historical Figures Who Wore the Name With Honor Throughout Cambodia’s history, the name Sokha has been borne by inspiring individuals. Take Sokha Heng, a politician known for his dedication to social welfare and rebuilding the nation after turbulent times. His legacy is a testament to how people named Sokha often embody the spirit of hope and positive change.

Then there’s Sokha Phim, a classical dancer who preserved Khmer cultural arts during challenging periods. Her performances were more than entertainment; they were acts of cultural survival and joy. Similarly, Sokha Oum’s commitment to education reform helped uplift countless communities, highlighting the nurturing aspect tied to the name.

Famous People and Athletes Spreading the Name’s Warmth In the arts, Sokha Chan captivates audiences with her acting, portraying characters that resonate with Cambodian identity and emotion. Singer Sokha Meas brings traditional Khmer music to new generations, blending the old with the new, while author Sokha Dara enriches Cambodian literature with stories that celebrate heritage.

Sports are no exception. Volleyball star Sokha Channa and footballer Sokha Rith represent Cambodia proudly, showcasing the name on national and international stages. Their dedication and teamwork reflect the harmonious and joyful qualities the name suggests.

Pop Culture: Sokha on Screen and Stage The name Sokha also graces characters in films and TV shows, often embodying resilience, compassion, and cultural pride. In 'The Last Khmer,' Sokha is a symbol of hope amid adversity, while in 'Phnom Penh Diaries,' she is a courageous journalist uncovering the city’s heart. 'Lotus Blossoms' features Sokha as a dancer determined to preserve tradition, mirroring real-life cultural themes.

Fun Facts and Trivia Did you know that 'Sokha' appears frequently in traditional Cambodian songs and poetry? It’s more than a name; it’s a motif representing the ideal emotional state—peace and happiness. This cultural significance makes it a name chosen not just for its sound but for its soul.

Another interesting tidbit: in Buddhist teachings prevalent in Cambodia, happiness is viewed as a state of mind cultivated through mindfulness and compassion. Naming a child Sokha subtly reflects these spiritual aspirations, weaving religion and culture beautifully.

Modern Usage and Trends While deeply traditional, Sokha fits seamlessly into contemporary life. Many Cambodian families continue to choose it, embracing both their heritage and the universal desire for happiness. It’s a unisex name, which makes it versatile and inclusive, appealing to modern parents valuing equality and meaningful identity.

Why I Love the Name Sokha As someone who has explored countless names, I find Sokha uniquely uplifting. It’s a reminder that names can be more than labels; they can be daily affirmations. When you meet someone named Sokha, there’s an immediate sense of warmth and optimism. It’s as if their name invites you to share in their joy.

Choosing a name like Sokha means embracing cultural richness and a hopeful outlook. It’s a gift, a wish, and a legacy all wrapped up in a beautiful sound.

Thank you for joining me on this joyful journey through the name Sokha. Whether you’re considering it for your child, curious about Cambodian culture, or simply love beautiful names, I hope you’ve found something to inspire your heart today.