The name Shannon holds a certain charm, evoking images of windswept landscapes and a connection to nature. But what is the story behind this popular name? This article delves into the meaning, popularity, and variations of Shannon, offering a comprehensive look at its journey through time.
(Image of the name Shannon)
Shannon Name Popularity Through the Years
How popular is the name Shannon? A look at historical data reveals fascinating trends. From relative obscurity in the early 20th century, Shannon experienced a surge in popularity, reaching its peak in the 1970s.
Here’s a breakdown of its ranking and usage over time, based on data from the Social Security Administration (SSA):
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1921 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1922 | 1,679 | 5 | 0.0004% |
| 1923-1936 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1937 | 1,359 | 6 | 0.0006% |
| 1938 | 1,152 | 12 | 0.0012% |
| 1939 | 1,281 | 9 | 0.0009% |
| 1940 | 937 | 25 | 0.0024% |
| 1941 | 903 | 31 | 0.0028% |
| 1942 | 688 | 74 | 0.0059% |
| 1943 | 627 | 102 | 0.0078% |
| 1944 | 767 | 56 | 0.0045% |
| 1945 | 720 | 61 | 0.005% |
| 1946 | 727 | 79 | 0.0054% |
| 1947 | 538 | 198 | 0.0119% |
| 1948 | 587 | 154 | 0.0096% |
| 1949 | 500 | 212 | 0.0132% |
| 1950 | 419 | 324 | 0.0201% |
| 1951 | 442 | 312 | 0.0184% |
| 1952 | 423 | 364 | 0.0209% |
| 1953 | 386 | 437 | 0.0247% |
| 1954 | 366 | 523 | 0.0286% |
| 1955 | 339 | 599 | 0.0326% |
| 1956 | 330 | 659 | 0.0349% |
| 1957 | 340 | 677 | 0.0352% |
| 1958 | 320 | 800 | 0.0423% |
| 1959 | 283 | 972 | 0.0512% |
| 1960 | 286 | 997 | 0.0526% |
| 1961 | 250 | 1,222 | 0.0647% |
| 1962 | 230 | 1,375 | 0.0749% |
| 1963 | 185 | 2,045 | 0.1139% |
| 1964 | 170 | 2,295 | 0.1304% |
| 1965 | 144 | 2,565 | 0.1569% |
| 1966 | 119 | 2,989 | 0.1914% |
| 1967 | 101 | 3,441 | 0.2267% |
| 1968 | 53 | 6,402 | 0.4264% |
| 1969 | 31 | 10,451 | 0.6784% |
| 1970 | 22 | 13,547 | 0.8513% |
| 1971 | 21 | 12,652 | 0.842% |
| 1972 | 22 | 10,964 | 0.805% |
| 1973 | 22 | 9,804 | 0.7562% |
| 1974 | 18 | 10,609 | 0.8162% |
| 1975 | 21 | 9,371 | 0.7292% |
| 1976 | 17 | 13,372 | 1.0375% |
| 1977 | 19 | 12,517 | 0.9286% |
| 1978 | 22 | 10,601 | 0.7885% |
| 1979 | 25 | 10,367 | 0.7352% |
| 1980 | 29 | 9,667 | 0.6612% |
| 1981 | 32 | 9,227 | 0.6277% |
| 1982 | 38 | 8,622 | 0.577% |
| 1983 | 38 | 8,426 | 0.571% |
| 1984 | 37 | 8,476 | 0.5698% |
| 1985 | 41 | 7,713 | 0.5082% |
| 1986 | 44 | 7,404 | 0.4905% |
| 1987 | 45 | 6,965 | 0.4564% |
| 1988 | 56 | 6,254 | 0.4013% |
| 1989 | 61 | 5,660 | 0.3507% |
| 1990 | 68 | 5,189 | 0.3131% |
| 1991 | 71 | 4,843 | 0.2971% |
| 1992 | 66 | 5,289 | 0.3314% |
| 1993 | 53 | 6,070 | 0.3893% |
| 1994 | 60 | 5,503 | 0.3586% |
| 1995 | 73 | 4,730 | 0.3138% |
| 1996 | 80 | 4,330 | 0.2892% |
| 1997 | 85 | 3,910 | 0.2644% |
| 1998 | 104 | 3,269 | 0.2184% |
| 1999 | 118 | 2,738 | 0.1828% |
| 2000 | 152 | 2,173 | 0.1422% |
| 2001 | 171 | 1,888 | 0.1253% |
| 2002 | 182 | 1,750 | 0.1168% |
| 2003 | 227 | 1,425 | 0.0937% |
| 2004 | 256 | 1,228 | 0.0806% |
| 2005 | 299 | 1,032 | 0.0675% |
| 2006 | 352 | 893 | 0.057% |
| 2007 | 440 | 691 | 0.0438% |
| 2008 | 479 | 613 | 0.0397% |
| 2009 | 571 | 487 | 0.0326% |
| 2010 | 691 | 359 | 0.0249% |
| 2011 | 711 | 335 | 0.0235% |
| 2012 | 789 | 280 | 0.0196% |
| 2013 | 886 | 226 | 0.0159% |
| 2014 | 1,002 | 189 | 0.013% |
| 2015 | 983 | 200 | 0.0137% |
| 2016 | 1,183 | 130 | 0.009% |
| 2017 | 1,181 | 122 | 0.0087% |
| 2018 | 1,291 | 97 | 0.0071% |
| 2019 | 1,433 | 76 | 0.0056% |
| 2020 | 2,271 | 34 | 0.0027% |
| 2021 | 1,950 | 46 | 0.0038% |
| 2022 | 1,884 | 58 | 0.0044% |
| 2023 | 2,070 | 47 | 0.0036% |
This table illustrates Shannon’s rise and subsequent decline in popularity, but it remains a recognizable and well-liked name. The slight uptick in recent years might indicate a potential resurgence.
Origins and Meaning of Shannon
The name Shannon has Gaelic roots, primarily associated with the Seanán river in Ireland, the longest river in the British Isles. The name Seanán itself is believed to derive from the Old Irish word sen, meaning "old" or "wise." Therefore, Shannon can be interpreted as "old," "wise," or "ancient river." This connection to a significant geographical feature lends the name a sense of history, strength, and natural beauty.
Variations and Similar Names
If you’re drawn to the sound and feel of Shannon, you might also appreciate these variations and similar-sounding names:
Variants of Shannon:
- Channa (Hebrew: "He (God) has favored me; old, ancient")
- Shana (Hebrew)
- Shandy
- Shane (Gaelic: "Old, ancient")
- Shani (African: "Crimson; a marvel, wondrous")
- Shanna (Hebrew: "Old, ancient; lily")
- Shannae (Gaelic: "Old, ancient")
- Shannan (Gaelic: "Old, ancient")
- Shannen (Gaelic: "Old, ancient")
- Shannin (Gaelic: "Old, ancient")
- Shanon (Gaelic: "Old, ancient")
Names that sound like Shannon:
- Chanina (Hebrew: "Gracious")
- Chaninah (Hebrew: "Gracious")
- Shawneen (English)
These options provide a range of choices, allowing you to explore different cultural origins and subtle nuances in meaning while retaining a familiar sound.
Shannon in Popular Culture
The name Shannon has appeared in various forms of media, further contributing to its recognition and appeal. From television characters to real-life figures, Shannon has been represented in diverse ways. This exposure helps solidify the name’s place in the cultural landscape.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are drawn to its Gaelic heritage, its connection to nature, or its melodic sound, Shannon remains a classic and versatile name. While its peak popularity may be in the past, its enduring charm ensures that it will continue to be a beloved choice for generations to come. Considering Shannon for your child means embracing a name with a rich history and a timeless quality.
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