Choosing a name for a child is a significant decision, filled with consideration of meaning, sound, and popularity. One name that often sparks interest is Shayne. How popular is the name Shayne, and what does it signify? Let’s delve into the details and explore everything we know about this distinctive moniker.
Shayne Name Popularity
The question on many parents’ minds: How popular is the name Shayne? The data provides a fascinating look at its historical usage.
Looking at data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), we can trace the popularity of Shayne over the past century. The name didn’t appear in the top names until the 1960s. Before 1961, no births were recorded with the name Shayne.
- Early Years (1910-1960): The name Shayne was virtually nonexistent in birth records, indicating extremely low usage during this period.
- Emergence (1961-1980): The name started gaining traction in the early 1960s, with a rank of 785 in 1961, corresponding to 53 births (0.0028% of total births). Its popularity fluctuated throughout the 60s and 70s, reaching a peak rank of 558 in 1971, with 161 births (0.0107%).
- Mid-Range Popularity (1981-2000): The 1980s and 1990s saw Shayne maintain a moderate level of popularity, with ranks ranging from the 500s to the 900s. The highest number of births in this period was 329 in 1990 (0.0198%).
- Decline (2001-2023): Since the beginning of the 21st century, Shayne has generally declined in popularity. The name has had only 5 births in 2021, ranking the name at 3,684.
This data paints a picture of a name that experienced a rise in popularity in the mid-20th century before gradually declining in recent years.
Meaning and Origin of Shayne
While the provided data focuses on popularity, understanding the meaning and origin of Shayne adds another layer to its appeal.
Shayne is generally considered to be of Irish origin, derived from the name "Shane," which is the Irish form of "John." Therefore, Shayne inherits the meaning "God is gracious." This religious connotation adds a layer of depth and significance to the name.
Names Like Shayne
If you’re drawn to the sound and style of Shayne, consider these similar names:
Sound-Alike Alternatives:
- Chayne: A French name meaning "oak-hearted."
- Shaine: Another Irish variant, also meaning "God is gracious." It has a female version too.
- Shayn: A shortened version of Shayne, sharing the same Irish origin and meaning.
- Swayne: An English name meaning "one who herds swine."
Similar Alternatives:
- Shaye: Of Gaelic origin, meaning "admirable." Has a female version too.
- Thayne: A Scottish name meaning "landholder."
These alternatives offer variations on the sound and feel of Shayne, allowing you to explore different origins and meanings while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
Conclusion
The name Shayne presents a compelling blend of history, meaning, and sound. Its popularity has seen fluctuations over the years, but its unique character remains. Whether you’re drawn to its Irish roots, its meaning of "God is gracious," or simply its distinctive sound, Shayne is a name worth considering for your child. The insights into its popularity trends, combined with its meaning and alternative options, provide a comprehensive overview for parents exploring this name.