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 #8577 in 1970 — currently #855 in the US.
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Related Reading
Israel-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →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 Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Shem Rose
Floral · soft ending
Shem Claire
French influence · crisp
Shem Jane
Literary · strong
Shem Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Shem right now?
Holding steady — currently #855 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 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 1970:
Shem by decade
Shem peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 5 | |
| 1960s | 36 | |
| 1970s ★ | 161 | |
| 1980s | 123 | |
| 1990s | 110 | |
| 2000s | 113 | |
| 2010s | 130 | |
| 2020s | 11 | |
💎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 SH EH1 M. 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.