What does Shahla mean and where does it come from?
Shahla (شahla) is a name of Persian and Arabic origin, meaning 'shining' in Persian and 'beautiful' in Arabic. It has been used since ancient times in cultures influenced by Persian and Arabic languages. The name is popular in countries like Iran and among Arabic speakers and often associated with b
Cultural significance
Shahla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Persian-speaking communities, where it reflects values of shining.
Peak popularity
Reached #6161 in 1981 — currently #760 in the US.
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Related Reading
Persian-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Shahla?
Shahla works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Shahla Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Shahla Rose
Floral · soft ending
Shahla Mae
Sweet · timeless
Shahla Claire
French influence · crisp
Shahla Jane
Literary · strong
Shahla Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Shahla right now?
Holding steady — currently #760 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #760 | 1,440 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #765 | 1,420 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #770 | 1,390 | ▲ up 11123 · +23067% births |
| 1990 | #11893 | 6 | ▼ down 522 · +20% births |
| 1985 | #11371 | 5 | ▼ down 2421 |
| 1970 | #8950 | 5 | — |
The story of Shahla
Shahla is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1969. With 99 total births recorded, Shahla remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8950 in 1970 to #760 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Shahla in 1981:
Shahla by decade
Shahla peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 6 | |
| 1970s | 23 | |
| 1980s ★ | 53 | |
| 1990s | 11 | |
| 2000s | 6 | |
💎Shahla has only 99 total recorded births since 1969 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Shahla?
What names sound and feel like Shahla?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Shahla also consider these
Common questions about the name Shahla
What does the name Shahla mean?
Shahla means "Shining" — a name rooted in Persian 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 Shahla?
Shahla is currently ranked #760 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Shahla?
Shahla originates from Persian tradition. Persian 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 Shahla?
Shahla is a two-syllable name pronounced SH AA1 L AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What are good nicknames for Shahla?
Shahla naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.