The name Sheila is a classic choice, steeped in Irish heritage and boasting a history of popularity. But how popular is the name Sheila today, and what other names resonate with its charm? This article dives into the fascinating world of the name Sheila, exploring its meaning, popularity trends, and alternative options for parents-to-be.
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Sheila Name Popularity: A Historical Perspective
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides a comprehensive look at the popularity of baby names in the United States. Examining the data for Sheila reveals a captivating journey through the 20th and 21st centuries.
Here’s a glimpse into the name’s ranking and frequency over the years:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1911 | 914 | 5 | 0.0013% |
| 1935 | 152 | 1,295 | 0.1333% |
| 1946 | 70 | 4,701 | 0.3186% |
| 1955 | 58 | 7,664 | 0.4167% |
| 1962 | 52 | 8,779 | 0.4782% |
| 1970 | 75 | 4,937 | 0.3102% |
| 1980 | 213 | 1,205 | 0.0824% |
| 1990 | 406 | 600 | 0.0362% |
| 2000 | 718 | 280 | 0.0183% |
| 2010 | 1,150 | 150 | 0.0104% |
| 2020 | 1,614 | 76 | 0.006% |
| 2023 | 2,043 | 49 | 0.0038% |
This table highlights key moments in Sheila’s popularity. The name began its rise in the early 20th century, experiencing a surge in the mid-1930s. Its peak popularity occurred in the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1940s through the 1960s, reaching its highest rank in 1962. After the 1970s, Sheila’s popularity gradually declined, though it remains in use.
Meaning and Origin:
Sheila is generally accepted to be the anglicized form of the Irish name Síle, which is itself a variant of the Latin name Caecilia. Caecilia is derived from the Latin word "caecus," meaning "blind." Therefore, the most common meaning associated with Sheila is "blind." While this might seem like an unusual meaning, names often evolve and take on different connotations over time. Some sources also suggest a connection to the Gaelic word "síocháin" meaning "peaceful" or "tranquil," though this is a less direct etymological link.
District of Columbia Popularity:
While national trends provide a broad overview, regional variations can exist. The provided data for the District of Columbia shows the frequency of the name Sheila over the years. It’s worth noting that smaller regions can have more volatile data due to the smaller sample size.
Names Like Sheila: Exploring Alternatives
If you’re drawn to Sheila’s sound and style but want to explore similar options, consider these categories:
Variants of Sheila:
These names share a close connection to Sheila, often stemming from the same origin or offering a similar phonetic quality.
- Seila: A simple and elegant variation. Meaning "Blind".
- Selia: Combining elements of Sheila with a Welsh twist. Meaning "Blind; sixth; the moon".
- Shayla: A more modern take with a Gaelic flair. Meaning "From the fairy palace".
- Sheela: A direct and classic variant. Meaning "Blind".
- Sheelagh: Another traditional Irish form. Meaning "Blind".
- Shyla: A blend of sounds with possible Indian origins. Meaning "Daughter of the mountain".
Names That Sound Like Sheila:
These names capture the essence of Sheila’s sound without necessarily being direct variants.
- Chela: A Latin name with a comforting meaning. Meaning "Consolation, comfort".
- Shaela: A variant of Shayla, with the meaning "From the fairy palace".
- Shaila: An Indian name meaning "River".
- Shelly: A versatile name with Hebrew and English origins. Meaning "Ewe, female sheep; little rock; rest; sloped meadow".
- Shilo: A Hebrew name meaning "His gift".
Similar Names:
These names share a similar style or feeling to Sheila, offering a slightly different twist.
- Cecilia: The Latin root of Sheila, with the meaning "Blinded one".
Sibling Names: What Goes Well with Sheila?
Choosing sibling names can be a fun but challenging task. The data suggests that families who chose the name Sheila also frequently chose Gavin for a brother.
- Gavin: A Welsh name meaning "Little white falcon".
Conclusion: The Enduring Charm of Sheila
The name Sheila is more than just a label; it’s a connection to history, culture, and a sense of timeless elegance. While its popularity may have fluctuated over the years, its inherent beauty and Irish roots continue to resonate with parents seeking a classic and meaningful name for their daughters. Whether you choose Sheila itself or explore its many variations and similar-sounding names, you’re sure to find a name that perfectly captures your vision for your little one.