What does Shamar mean and where does it come from?
Shamar is of Hebrew origin, meaning 'to keep' or 'to guard.' While it is predominantly a unisex name, it has gained traction as a feminine name, particularly within modern American culture. The name is rooted in spiritual significance, often associated with protection and vigilance. It has gained po
Cultural significance
Shamar has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of to keep, to guard.
Peak popularity
Reached #5049 in 1983 — currently #654 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Shamar?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Shamar?
Shamar works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Shamar Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Shamar Rose
Floral · soft ending
Shamar Mae
Sweet · timeless
Shamar Claire
French influence · crisp
Shamar Jane
Literary · strong
Shamar Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Shamar right now?
Holding steady — currently #654 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #654 | 1,546 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #659 | 1,526 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #664 | 1,496 | ▲ up 12963 · +24833% births |
| 2000 | #13627 | 6 | ▼ down 4574 · -33% births |
| 1995 | #9053 | 9 | ▲ up 1577 · +29% births |
| 1990 | #10630 | 7 | ▼ down 2686 · -12% births |
| 1985 | #7944 | 8 | ▼ down 2497 · -38% births |
| 1980 | #5447 | 13 | ▲ up 4427 · +160% births |
| 1975 | #9874 | 5 | — |
The story of Shamar
Shamar is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1969. With 6,166 total births recorded, Shamar remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9874 in 1975 to #654 in 2023. Shamar is used for both genders: 4% female and 96% male.
Names that peaked alongside Shamar in 1983:
Shamar by decade
Shamar peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 5 | |
| 1970s | 235 | |
| 1980s | 723 | |
| 1990s | 1,381 | |
| 2000s ★ | 2,562 | |
| 2010s | 1,191 | |
| 2020s | 69 | |
💎With 6,166 total births, Shamar is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Shamar?
Common
ShaShamShamieShamyAmar
What names sound and feel like Shamar?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Shamar also consider these
Common questions about the name Shamar
What does the name Shamar mean?
Shamar means "to keep, to guard" — a name rooted in American 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 Shamar?
Shamar is currently ranked #654 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Shamar?
Shamar originates from American tradition. American 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 Shamar?
Shamar is a two-syllable name pronounced SH AA1 M AA1 R. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Shamar more of a girl or boy name?
Shamar is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.