“God of thunder and lightning” — Associated with masculinity
Nigeria origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#1166US 2023
1kBirths / yr
→Stable
28All-time births
📅 Since 197100
How to pronounce Shango
SHAH·engg·OH
/ˈʃɑ.ɛŋɡ.ˈoʊ/ · stress on SHAH · 3 syllables
“God of thunder and lightning”
Associated with masculinity · Nigeria origin
What does Shango mean and where does it come from?
Shango is a prominent deity in the Yoruba religion, worshiped as the god of thunder, lightning, and fire. He is known for his temper and his ability to control storms. He is often associated with masculinity, virility, and power. Shango is celebrated in various festivals and is recognized in the Afr
Cultural significance
Shango has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Nigeria-speaking communities, where it reflects values of god of thunder and lightning.
Peak popularity
Reached #3327 in 1972 — currently #1166 in the US.
Holding steady — currently #1166 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1995–2023#1166 · Top 0.86%
1995
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1166
1,034
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022
#1171
1,014
▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021
#1176
984
▲ up 8129 · +19580% births
1995
#9305
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Shango
2023Rank #1166
1,034
#3205
→Stable
1995 - 20234 years
The story of Shango
Shango is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1971. With 28 total births recorded, Shango remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9305 in 1995 to #1166 in 2023.
Shango means "God of thunder and lightning" — a name rooted in Nigeria 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 Shango?
Shango 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 Shango?
Shango originates from Nigeria tradition. Nigeria 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 Shango?
Shango is a three-syllable name pronounced SH AA1 EH0 NG G OW1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Shango?
Shango pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Nigeria heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Shango
For a sister
Shango & Uzoamaka♡
Shango & Chinara♡
Shango & Bosede♡
Shango & Tonye♡
For a brother
Shango & Chioke♡
Shango & Abiodun♡
Shango & Oladapo♡
Shango & Mobolaji♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1166
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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