📅 Since 1907🏆 30 years in top 1000.45% of births at peak
How to pronounce Sheila
SHEE·luh
/ˈʃiː.lə/ · stress on SHEE · 2 syllables
“the dark-haired one”
Ireland origin · Unisex name
What does Sheila mean and where does it come from?
Sheila is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Síle, a form of the name Cecilia. The name was historically popular in Ireland and became more widespread in the United States and Australia during the 20th century. It has been used as a term of endearment in some cases. Notable people with th
Cultural significance
Sheila has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the dark-haired one.
Holding steady — currently #1083 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1910–2023#1083 · Top 0.80%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1083
1,117
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022
#1088
1,097
▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021
#1093
1,067
▲ up 503 · +721% births
2020
#1596
130
▲ up 109 · +5% births
2015
#1705
124
▼ down 426 · -33% births
2010
#1279
186
▼ down 263 · -22% births
2005
#1016
240
▼ down 328 · -30% births
2000
#688
343
▼ down 105 · -13% births
1995
#583
395
▼ down 170 · -37% births
1990
#413
626
▼ down 162 · -38% births
1985
#251
1,012
▼ down 37 · -17% births
1980
#214
1,213
▼ down 80 · -42% births
1975
#134
2,099
▼ down 59 · -57% births
1970
#75
4,937
▼ down 25 · -38% births
1965
#50
7,901
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Sheila
1965Rank #50
7,906
#619
↘Falling
1910 - 202326 years
The story of Sheila
Sheila entered American naming records in 1907 and has been in use for over 117 years. Its peak popularity was #50 in 1963. More than 238,894 babies have been named Sheila since 1907. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1630 in 1910 to #1083 in 2023. Sheila is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Sheila means "the dark-haired one" — a name rooted in Ireland 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 Sheila?
Sheila is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Sheila?
Sheila originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland 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 Sheila?
Sheila is a two-syllable name pronounced SH IY1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Sheila a common or rare name?
Sheila is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Sheila
For a sister
Sheila & Gael♡
Sheila & Donovan♡
Sheila & Robann♡
Sheila & Michealene♡
For a brother
Sheila & Gael♡
Sheila & Patrick♡
Sheila & Brian♡
Sheila & Donovan♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1083
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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