Choosing a baby name is a significant decision for parents. It’s a gift that a child carries throughout their life, influencing how they are perceived and even shaping their sense of identity. If you’re drawn to names with deep meaning and historical significance, Shalom might be the perfect choice. This name, rich in heritage and brimming with positivity, offers a beautiful sentiment for your little one.
The name Shalom carries a profound meaning. Derived from the Hebrew word for "peace," Shalom embodies completeness, well-being, and harmony. It’s a wish for a life filled with tranquility, wholeness, and positive relationships. Beyond its literal translation, Shalom also represents a state of reconciliation, justice, and the absence of conflict. It’s a powerful message to impart to a child, encouraging them to be a force for good and a bringer of peace in the world.
Shalom Name Popularity
But how popular is the name Shalom? Let’s delve into the data to see its historical trends and current standing. While never a chart-topper, Shalom has seen periods of increased usage, particularly in recent decades.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides valuable data on baby name popularity. Analyzing this data reveals interesting trends for the name Shalom.
Historical Trends (SSA Data Analysis):
Looking at the SSA data, Shalom hasn’t consistently ranked among the most popular names in the United States. For many years throughout the early to mid-20th century (1910-1962), the name was rarely, if ever, given to newborns in a quantity that would register in the SSA’s records. This doesn’t mean the name wasn’t used, but rather that its occurrence was infrequent.
However, the data reveals a gradual increase in popularity starting in the latter half of the 20th century. The name began appearing sporadically in the rankings, indicating a growing awareness and acceptance of Shalom as a given name.
The following table presents a summary of the name’s popularity over the years:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1962 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1963 | 1,396 | 6 | 0.0003% |
| 1964-1966 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1967 | 1,412 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1968 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1969 | 1,529 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1970-1973 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1974 | 1,476 | 8 | 0.0006% |
| 1975 | 1,660 | 6 | 0.0005% |
| 1976 | 1,527 | 9 | 0.0007% |
| 1977 | 1,506 | 10 | 0.0007% |
| 1978 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1979 | 1,512 | 11 | 0.0008% |
| 1980 | 1,858 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1981 | 1,509 | 12 | 0.0008% |
| 1982 | 1,647 | 10 | 0.0007% |
| 1983 | 1,655 | 9 | 0.0006% |
| 1984 | 1,745 | 7 | 0.0005% |
| 1985 | 1,796 | 8 | 0.0005% |
| 1986 | 1,819 | 8 | 0.0005% |
| 1987 | 1,743 | 11 | 0.0007% |
| 1988 | 1,978 | 8 | 0.0005% |
| 1989 | 1,829 | 12 | 0.0007% |
| 1990 | 1,774 | 14 | 0.0008% |
| 1991 | 1,757 | 15 | 0.0009% |
| 1992 | 1,852 | 13 | 0.0008% |
| 1993 | 1,976 | 11 | 0.0007% |
| 1994 | 2,004 | 11 | 0.0007% |
| 1995 | 1,889 | 13 | 0.0009% |
| 1996 | 2,104 | 10 | 0.0007% |
| 1997 | 2,096 | 11 | 0.0007% |
| 1998 | 1,744 | 20 | 0.0013% |
| 1999 | 1,768 | 19 | 0.0013% |
| 2000 | 1,968 | 15 | 0.001% |
| 2001 | 1,663 | 26 | 0.0017% |
| 2002 | 1,557 | 33 | 0.0022% |
| 2003 | 1,747 | 26 | 0.0017% |
| 2004 | 1,443 | 46 | 0.003% |
| 2005 | 1,780 | 27 | 0.0018% |
| 2006 | 1,703 | 34 | 0.0022% |
| 2007 | 1,662 | 39 | 0.0025% |
| 2008 | 1,679 | 36 | 0.0023% |
| 2009 | 1,621 | 40 | 0.0027% |
| 2010 | 1,552 | 44 | 0.0031% |
| 2011 | 1,584 | 40 | 0.0028% |
| 2012 | 1,511 | 46 | 0.0032% |
| 2013 | 1,630 | 35 | 0.0025% |
| 2014 | 1,598 | 38 | 0.0026% |
| 2015 | 1,407 | 57 | 0.0039% |
| 2016 | 1,470 | 50 | 0.0035% |
| 2017 | 1,490 | 45 | 0.0032% |
| 2018 | 1,526 | 43 | 0.0031% |
| 2019 | 1,415 | 54 | 0.004% |
| 2020 | 1,577 | 56 | 0.0044% |
| 2021 | 1,502 | 68 | 0.0056% |
| 2022 | 1,707 | 54 | 0.0041% |
| 2023 | 1,525 | 68 | 0.0053% |
Recent Trends (2000s-Present):
In the 21st century, Shalom has maintained a relatively stable presence. While fluctuations occur year to year, the name consistently appears, suggesting a sustained interest in its unique appeal. The number of births and the percentage of births remain relatively low, indicating that Shalom is still a less common, more distinctive choice. For example, in 2023, the name ranked 1,525, with 68 births, accounting for 0.0053% of all births.
Names Like Shalom
If you’re captivated by the essence of Shalom but want to explore similar options, several names share its sound, origin, or meaning.
Variants of Shalom:
- Sholom: A direct variation of Shalom, retaining the same meaning and Hebrew origin.
- Solomon: While more widely known, Solomon also shares the meaning of "peace" and has Hebrew roots.
Names That Sound Like Shalom:
- Shelomi
- Shelomo
- Shlomi
- Shlomo
Similar Names (Meaning-Based):
- Salem: Another Hebrew name linked to the concept of peace. It also has historical significance as an ancient city name.
Siblings of Shalom
What names do parents who choose Shalom often select for their other children? Examining sibling name pairings can offer insights into the overall naming style and preferences of families who appreciate the name Shalom. The data suggests that parents choosing Shalom often opt for other names with Hebrew origins, strong meanings, or a sense of classic appeal. Some examples include:
- Promise: A name of English origin meaning "one’s word."
- Mateo: Spanish for "Gift of God."
- Jacob: Hebrew name meaning "supplanter."
- Micah: Hebrew name meaning "Who is Like God?"
- Zacharias: A Hebrew name meaning "The Lord recalled"
- Elijah: Hebrew for "My God is Yahweh."
- Khloe: A Greek name meaning "green sprout."
- Martavious
Ultimately, the best name for your baby is a personal decision. However, understanding the meaning, history, and popularity of a name like Shalom can empower you to make a choice that resonates with your values and aspirations for your child. Shalom offers a unique blend of tradition, meaning, and individuality, making it a wonderful option for parents seeking a name that embodies peace and wholeness.
