What does Isham mean and where does it come from?
The name Isham originates from Old English, combining 'isar' (ash tree) and 'ham' (homestead, village). The name is typically associated with those who lived near an ash tree or an ash tree grove. It is relatively uncommon today but has historical roots in England. It is more frequently found as a s
Cultural significance
Isham has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in England-speaking communities, where it reflects values of old english.
Peak popularity
Reached #511 in 1880 — currently #11402 in the US.
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Related Reading
England-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Isham?
Isham works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Isham Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Isham Rose
Floral · soft ending
Isham Mae
Sweet · timeless
Isham Claire
French influence · crisp
Isham Jane
Literary · strong
Isham Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Isham right now?
Falling — down 4210 spots — currently #11402 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2022 | #11402 | 6 | ▼ down 4210 |
| 1990 | #7192 | 6 | ▼ down 3705 · +20% births |
| 1940 | #3487 | 5 | ▼ down 517 · -29% births |
| 1935 | #2970 | 7 | ▼ down 346 · -30% births |
| 1930 | #2624 | 10 | ▼ down 873 · -50% births |
| 1925 | #1751 | 20 | ▲ up 490 · +43% births |
| 1920 | #2241 | 14 | ▲ up 1174 · +133% births |
| 1915 | #3415 | 6 | ▼ down 2718 · -40% births |
| 1895 | #697 | 10 | ▼ down 83 · -9% births |
| 1890 | #614 | 11 | ▼ down 103 · -15% births |
| 1880 | #511 | 13 | — |
The story of Isham
Isham has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 608 total births recorded, Isham remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #511 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #11402 in 2022.
Names that peaked alongside Isham in 1880:
Isham by decade
Isham peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 65 | |
| 1890s | 53 | |
| 1900s | 24 | |
| 1910s | 100 | |
| 1920s ★ | 151 | |
| 1930s | 56 | |
| 1940s | 47 | |
| 1950s | 35 | |
| 1960s | 13 | |
| 1970s | 25 | |
| 1980s | 17 | |
| 1990s | 11 | |
| 2000s | 11 | |
💎Isham has only 608 total recorded births since 1880 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Isham?
What names sound and feel like Isham?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Isham also consider these
Common questions about the name Isham
What does the name Isham mean?
Isham means "Old English" — a name rooted in England tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Isham?
Isham is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Isham?
Isham originates from England tradition. England names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Isham?
Isham is a two-syllable name pronounced IH1 SH AH0 M. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Isham a common or rare name?
Isham is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.