“Shela is a name that is often seen as a derivative of Sheila, which has Irish origins as well”
American origin · Girl name
♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls
#1899US 2023
301Births / yr
→Stable
1.4kAll-time births
📅 Since 193500
How to pronounce Shela
SHEL·uh
/ˈʃɛl.ə/ · stress on SHEL · 2 syllables
“Shela is a name that is often seen as a derivative of Sheila, which has Irish origins as well”
American origin · Girl name
What does Shela mean and where does it come from?
Shela is a name that is often seen as a derivative of Sheila, which has Irish origins as well. The name has different meanings depending on the cultural context, and is particularly noted within Jewish communities. Its usage has been popular in the United States since the 20th century.
Cultural significance
Shela has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hebrew.
Peak popularity
Reached #1394 in 1950 — currently #1899 in the US.
Holding steady — currently #1899 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1935–2023#1899 · Top 1.4%
1945
1950
1955
1960
1965
1970
1975
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1899
301
▲ up 5 · +7% births
2022
#1904
281
▲ up 5 · +12% births
2021
#1909
251
▲ up 14834 · +4920% births
2005
#16743
5
▼ down 5840 · -37% births
2000
#10903
8
▼ down 3279 · -27% births
1995
#7624
11
▼ down 2263 · -35% births
1990
#5361
17
▼ down 1014 · -6% births
1985
#4347
18
▼ down 1020 · -14% births
1975
#3327
21
▼ down 838 · -30% births
1970
#2489
30
▼ down 651 · -23% births
1965
#1838
39
▲ up 338 · +34% births
1960
#2176
29
▼ down 77 · +7% births
1955
#2099
27
▼ down 705 · -39% births
1950
#1394
44
▲ up 1182 · +238% births
1945
#2576
13
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Shela
1950Rank #1394
301
#4378
↘Falling
1935 - 202317 years
The story of Shela
Shela entered American naming records in 1935 and has been in use for over 89 years. With 1,398 total births recorded, Shela remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4882 in 1935 to #1899 in 2023.
Shela means "Hebrew" — 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 Shela?
Shela is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Shela?
Shela 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 Shela?
Shela is a two-syllable name pronounced SH EH1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Shela a common or rare name?
Shela is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Shela
For a sister
Shela & Harrison♡
Shela & Dean♡
Shela & Preston♡
Shela & Rosemary♡
For a brother
Shela & Harrison♡
Shela & Dean♡
Shela & Kevin♡
Shela & Preston♡
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