What does Sherman mean and where does it come from?
Sherman is traditionally known as a male name originating from the Anglo-Saxon surname meaning 'shearer of wool'. However, in contemporary contexts, Sherman has also been adopted as a female name, reflecting modern naming trends that embrace traditional surnames for girls. The name has historical si
Cultural significance
Sherman has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of shearer of wool; one who works with wool.
Peak popularity
Reached #3172 in 1935 — currently #916 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Sherman?
Sherman works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Sherman Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Sherman Rose
Floral · soft ending
Sherman Mae
Sweet · timeless
Sherman Claire
French influence · crisp
Sherman Jane
Literary · strong
Sherman Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Sherman right now?
Holding steady — currently #916 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #916 | 1,284 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #921 | 1,264 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #926 | 1,234 | ▲ up 7419 · +17529% births |
| 1985 | #8345 | 7 | ▼ down 322 · +40% births |
| 1970 | #8023 | 5 | ▼ down 2834 · -29% births |
| 1960 | #5189 | 7 | ▼ down 1394 · -30% births |
| 1955 | #3795 | 10 | ▲ up 790 · +100% births |
| 1945 | #4585 | 5 | ▼ down 211 |
| 1940 | #4374 | 5 | ▼ down 1202 · -37% births |
| 1935 | #3172 | 8 | — |
The story of Sherman
Sherman entered American naming records in 1916 and has been in use for over 108 years. A total of 39,268 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3172 in 1935 to #916 in 2023. Sherman is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Sherman in 1935:
Sherman by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 615 | |
| 1890s | 766 | |
| 1900s | 838 | |
| 1910s | 3,377 | |
| 1920s | 5,082 | |
| 1930s | 4,855 | |
| 1940s | 5,468 | |
| 1950s ★ | 5,852 | |
| 1960s | 4,320 | |
| 1970s | 3,306 | |
| 1980s | 2,273 | |
| 1990s | 1,351 | |
| 2000s | 715 | |
| 2010s | 416 | |
| 2020s | 34 | |
What are good nicknames for Sherman?
What names sound and feel like Sherman?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Sherman also consider these
Common questions about the name Sherman
What does the name Sherman mean?
Sherman means "shearer of wool; one who works with wool" — 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 Sherman?
Sherman is currently ranked #916 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 Sherman?
Sherman 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 Sherman?
Sherman is a two-syllable name pronounced SH ER1 M AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Sherman a common or rare name?
Sherman is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.