What does Shem mean and where does it come from?
Shem (שֵׁם) is a feminine name in Hebrew that translates to 'name' or 'reputation'. It has biblical roots, being the name of one of the sons of Noah in the Old Testament. The female use of Shem is less common but can symbolize the essence of identity and character. It is sometimes adopted in Jewish
Cultural significance
Shem has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Israel-speaking communities, where it reflects values of name, reputation.
Peak popularity
Reached #6771 in 2024 — currently #8147 in the US.
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Related Reading
Israel-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Shem?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Shem?
Shem works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Shem Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Shem John
One syllable · timeless choice
Shem Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Shem Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Shem Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Shem Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Shem right now?
Falling — down 1376 spots — currently #8147 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #8147 | 10 | ▼ down 1376 · -23% births |
| 2024 | #6771 | 13 | ▼ down 5916 · -99% births |
| 2023 | #855 | 1,345 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #860 | 1,325 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #865 | 1,295 | ▲ up 7712 · +25800% births |
| 1970 | #8577 | 5 | — |
The story of Shem
Shem is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1970. With 689 total births recorded, Shem remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8577 in 1970 to #855 in 2023. Shem is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Shem in 2024:
Shem by decade
Shem peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 5 | |
| 1960s | 36 | |
| 1970s ★ | 161 | |
| 1980s | 123 | |
| 1990s | 110 | |
| 2000s | 113 | |
| 2010s | 130 | |
| 2020s | 34 | |
💎Shem has only 689 total recorded births since 1970 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Shem?
What names sound and feel like Shem?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Shem also consider these
How is Shem written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Shem
What does the name Shem mean?
Shem means "name, reputation" — a name rooted in Israel 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 Shem?
Shem is currently ranked #855 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 Shem?
Shem originates from Israel tradition. Israel 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 Shem?
Shem is a one-syllable name pronounced SHEM. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Shem sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Shem flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Shem ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.