The name Sheldon evokes a sense of tradition and strength. But what’s the story behind this moniker? How popular has Sheldon been throughout the years, and what other names resonate with its sound and style? Let’s delve into the history, popularity, and associated names of Sheldon to give you a full view.
Sheldon Name Meaning and Origin
Sheldon is a boy’s name of English origin. The most accepted meaning is "from the steep valley" or "from the shelled farm." The "shel" element often refers to a slope or hillside, while "don" typically denotes a hill or valley. Some interpretations also connect "shel" to "shell" or "shield," giving it a more protective connotation. Another variation is, "Willow valley."
The name’s origin is rooted in English place names. Many Sheldons existed throughout England. These locations eventually led to the surname and, later, the given name. This connection to the land gives Sheldon a grounded and reliable feel.
Sheldon Name Popularity: A Historical Perspective
How popular is the name Sheldon? Let’s explore its trajectory through time, based on Social Security Administration (SSA) data:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1911 | 623 | 6 | 0.0016% |
| 1912 | 512 | 28 | 0.0056% |
| 1913 | 565 | 30 | 0.0053% |
| 1914 | 552 | 46 | 0.0066% |
| 1915 | 571 | 61 | 0.0067% |
| 1916 | 510 | 88 | 0.0091% |
| 1917 | 521 | 88 | 0.0088% |
| 1918 | 471 | 118 | 0.011% |
| 1919 | 417 | 157 | 0.015% |
| 1920 | 455 | 138 | 0.0124% |
| 1921 | 415 | 178 | 0.0155% |
| 1922 | 396 | 194 | 0.0174% |
| 1923 | 388 | 196 | 0.0175% |
| 1924 | 342 | 257 | 0.0221% |
| 1925 | 331 | 270 | 0.0239% |
| 1926 | 308 | 299 | 0.0272% |
| 1927 | 302 | 329 | 0.0297% |
| 1928 | 282 | 357 | 0.0334% |
| 1929 | 276 | 364 | 0.0351% |
| 1930 | 288 | 354 | 0.0339% |
| 1931 | 277 | 359 | 0.0364% |
| 1932 | 269 | 383 | 0.0388% |
| 1933 | 248 | 399 | 0.0428% |
| 1934 | 249 | 424 | 0.0439% |
| 1935 | 252 | 420 | 0.0432% |
| 1936 | 250 | 406 | 0.0421% |
| 1937 | 262 | 385 | 0.0391% |
| 1938 | 269 | 383 | 0.0374% |
| 1939 | 294 | 318 | 0.0313% |
| 1940 | 295 | 321 | 0.0302% |
| 1941 | 287 | 366 | 0.0325% |
| 1942 | 296 | 381 | 0.0302% |
| 1943 | 293 | 404 | 0.0309% |
| 1944 | 316 | 326 | 0.0263% |
| 1945 | 313 | 326 | 0.0267% |
| 1946 | 332 | 344 | 0.0233% |
| 1947 | 338 | 373 | 0.0223% |
| 1948 | 343 | 348 | 0.0218% |
| 1949 | 351 | 329 | 0.0205% |
| 1950 | 345 | 342 | 0.0212% |
| 1951 | 384 | 270 | 0.0159% |
| 1952 | 354 | 330 | 0.0189% |
| 1953 | 398 | 265 | 0.015% |
| 1954 | 359 | 360 | 0.0197% |
| 1955 | 388 | 305 | 0.0166% |
| 1956 | 367 | 363 | 0.0192% |
| 1957 | 371 | 381 | 0.0198% |
| 1958 | 392 | 353 | 0.0187% |
| 1959 | 418 | 322 | 0.0169% |
| 1960 | 399 | 348 | 0.0184% |
| 1961 | 396 | 361 | 0.0191% |
| 1962 | 385 | 394 | 0.0215% |
| 1963 | 404 | 351 | 0.0196% |
| 1964 | 395 | 367 | 0.0208% |
| 1965 | 391 | 354 | 0.0216% |
| 1966 | 387 | 344 | 0.022% |
| 1967 | 392 | 332 | 0.0219% |
| 1968 | 396 | 348 | 0.0232% |
| 1969 | 404 | 353 | 0.0229% |
| 1970 | 404 | 360 | 0.0226% |
| 1971 | 415 | 335 | 0.0223% |
| 1972 | 463 | 251 | 0.0184% |
| 1973 | 425 | 299 | 0.0231% |
| 1974 | 409 | 319 | 0.0245% |
| 1975 | 401 | 326 | 0.0254% |
| 1976 | 401 | 331 | 0.0257% |
| 1977 | 449 | 274 | 0.0203% |
| 1978 | 450 | 274 | 0.0204% |
| 1979 | 459 | 271 | 0.0192% |
| 1980 | 478 | 266 | 0.0182% |
| 1981 | 469 | 274 | 0.0186% |
| 1982 | 526 | 216 | 0.0145% |
| 1983 | 488 | 252 | 0.0171% |
| 1984 | 483 | 256 | 0.0172% |
| 1985 | 493 | 266 | 0.0175% |
| 1986 | 463 | 307 | 0.0203% |
| 1987 | 462 | 321 | 0.021% |
| 1988 | 474 | 332 | 0.0213% |
| 1989 | 468 | 362 | 0.0224% |
| 1990 | 440 | 463 | 0.0279% |
| 1991 | 415 | 509 | 0.0312% |
| 1992 | 373 | 585 | 0.0367% |
| 1993 | 447 | 450 | 0.0289% |
| 1994 | 439 | 479 | 0.0312% |
| 1995 | 451 | 464 | 0.0308% |
| 1996 | 466 | 427 | 0.0285% |
| 1997 | 470 | 418 | 0.0283% |
| 1998 | 524 | 354 | 0.0237% |
| 1999 | 559 | 313 | 0.0209% |
| 2000 | 627 | 253 | 0.0166% |
| 2001 | 619 | 264 | 0.0175% |
| 2002 | 704 | 207 | 0.0138% |
| 2003 | 807 | 168 | 0.011% |
| 2004 | 801 | 174 | 0.0114% |
| 2005 | 782 | 200 | 0.0131% |
| 2006 | 835 | 192 | 0.0123% |
| 2007 | 992 | 138 | 0.0087% |
| 2008 | 947 | 153 | 0.0099% |
| 2009 | 1036 | 125 | 0.0084% |
| 2010 | 1005 | 137 | 0.0095% |
| 2011 | 1018 | 126 | 0.0088% |
| 2012 | 984 | 137 | 0.0096% |
| 2013 | 1054 | 115 | 0.0081% |
| 2014 | 1047 | 124 | 0.0085% |
| 2015 | 1216 | 86 | 0.0059% |
| 2016 | 1315 | 71 | 0.0049% |
| 2017 | 1253 | 78 | 0.0056% |
| 2018 | 1266 | 74 | 0.0054% |
| 2019 | 1470 | 47 | 0.0035% |
| 2020 | 1798 | 40 | 0.0031% |
| 2021 | 2261 | 24 | 0.002% |
| 2022 | 2084 | 31 | 0.0023% |
| 2023 | 2623 | 17 | 0.0013% |
As the data indicates, Sheldon experienced its peak popularity in the early to mid-20th century, particularly between the 1920s and 1950s. It has since declined, reaching lower ranks in recent years. This ebb and flow of popularity is typical of many traditional names. While it may not be topping the charts currently, its classic appeal ensures it never completely disappears. The recent lowest ranking was in 2023, with rank 2,623 and just 17 births.
Geographical Distribution of Sheldon
The provided data includes a chart specifically for the District of Columbia. While this data is limited, it suggests that the name has had some presence in that region, even if sporadic. Analyzing broader geographical data (which isn’t available in the original extract) would provide a more comprehensive picture of where Sheldon has been most prevalent throughout history.
Names Similar to Sheldon
If you’re drawn to the name Sheldon, you might also appreciate these similar options:
Variants of Sheldon:
- Shelden: A subtle variation, also meaning "willow valley or steep valley."
- Sheldin: Another variant that means "steep valley".
Names that sound like Sheldon:
- Chelton: Meaning "farm near the well," Chelton offers a similar sound with a different origin.
- Chilton: Another option with the same meaning as Chelton, providing a close auditory resemblance.
These names share phonetic qualities or origins with Sheldon, making them appealing alternatives for parents seeking a similar feel.
Sheldon in Popular Culture
The name Sheldon has also been used in popular culture. Most notably, the character Sheldon Cooper from the CBS sitcom "The Big Bang Theory," has helped to bring the name into the 21st century.
Sheldon: A Timeless Choice
While Sheldon might not be the most common name today, it boasts a rich history, a strong meaning, and a timeless quality. Its English roots and connection to the land give it a sense of stability and reliability. Whether you’re drawn to its classic sound, its historical significance, or its association with intelligence and wit, Sheldon remains a distinctive and meaningful choice for a baby boy. It’s a name that carries a sense of tradition while still feeling fresh and unique in the modern world. If you value heritage and a name that stands out without being overly trendy, Sheldon is worth considering.