What does Shila mean and where does it come from?
Shila is a name of Indian origin, derived from Sanskrit, meaning 'stone' or 'rock'. It is often associated with strength and durability. The name has been used in various Indian cultures and can have different variations in pronunciation. It is also popular among certain Hindu communities. The first
Cultural significance
Shila has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of चाँद.
Peak popularity
Reached #2841 in 1975 — currently #17252 in the US.
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Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Shila?
Shila works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Shila Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Shila Rose
Floral · soft ending
Shila Mae
Sweet · timeless
Shila Claire
French influence · crisp
Shila Jane
Literary · strong
Shila Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Shila right now?
Falling — down 2006 spots — currently #17252 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #17252 | 5 | ▼ down 2006 |
| 2020 | #15246 | 5 | ▼ down 2101 · -29% births |
| 2015 | #13145 | 7 | ▼ down 8012 · -74% births |
| 2010 | #5133 | 27 | ▲ up 1737 · +59% births |
| 2005 | #6870 | 17 | ▼ down 1345 · -15% births |
| 2000 | #5525 | 20 | ▼ down 1145 · -13% births |
| 1995 | #4380 | 23 | ▲ up 730 · +28% births |
| 1990 | #5110 | 18 | ▼ down 1195 · -14% births |
| 1985 | #3915 | 21 | ▼ down 818 · -25% births |
| 1980 | #3097 | 28 | ▼ down 256 · +8% births |
| 1975 | #2841 | 26 | ▲ up 1106 · +73% births |
| 1970 | #3947 | 15 | ▲ up 1118 · +88% births |
| 1965 | #5065 | 8 | ▲ up 994 · +33% births |
| 1960 | #6059 | 6 | ▼ down 1419 · -14% births |
| 1950 | #4640 | 7 | — |
The story of Shila
Shila entered American naming records in 1941 and has been in use for over 83 years. With 1,075 total births recorded, Shila remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #4640 in 1950, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #17252 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Shila in 1975:
Shila by decade
Shila peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 24 | |
| 1950s | 25 | |
| 1960s | 76 | |
| 1970s | 205 | |
| 1980s ★ | 239 | |
| 1990s | 204 | |
| 2000s | 191 | |
| 2010s | 106 | |
| 2020s | 5 | |
💎With 1,075 total births, Shila is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Shila?
What names sound and feel like Shila?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Shila also consider these
How is Shila written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Shila
What does the name Shila mean?
Shila means "चाँद" — a name rooted in India 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 Shila?
Shila is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Shila?
Shila originates from India tradition. India names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Shila a common or rare name?
Shila is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Shila?
Shila naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.