What does Shilpa mean and where does it come from?
Shilpa originates from Sanskrit and is predominantly used in India. It refers to someone who is artistic or skilled, often associated with creative or artistic endeavors. The name has associations with craftsmanship and often signifies a person who excels in visual arts, performing arts, or craftsma
Cultural significance
Shilpa has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of artistic, skilled.
Peak popularity
Reached #2505 in 1973 — currently #914 in the US.
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Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Shilpa?
Shilpa works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Shilpa Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Shilpa Rose
Floral · soft ending
Shilpa Mae
Sweet · timeless
Shilpa Claire
French influence · crisp
Shilpa Jane
Literary · strong
Shilpa Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Shilpa right now?
Holding steady — currently #914 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #914 | 1,286 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #919 | 1,266 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #924 | 1,236 | ▲ up 14412 · +20500% births |
| 2010 | #15336 | 6 | ▼ down 7152 · -50% births |
| 2000 | #8184 | 12 | ▼ down 3435 · -43% births |
| 1995 | #4749 | 21 | ▲ up 424 · +17% births |
| 1990 | #5173 | 18 | ▼ down 773 |
| 1985 | #4400 | 18 | ▼ down 918 · -25% births |
| 1980 | #3482 | 24 | ▼ down 339 · +4% births |
| 1975 | #3143 | 23 | ▲ up 1597 · +92% births |
| 1970 | #4740 | 12 | — |
The story of Shilpa
Shilpa is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1968. With 573 total births recorded, Shilpa remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4740 in 1970 to #914 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Shilpa in 1973:
Shilpa by decade
Shilpa peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 11 | |
| 1970s | 173 | |
| 1980s ★ | 190 | |
| 1990s | 157 | |
| 2000s | 36 | |
| 2010s | 6 | |
💎Shilpa has only 573 total recorded births since 1968 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Shilpa?
What names sound and feel like Shilpa?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Shilpa also consider these
Common questions about the name Shilpa
What does the name Shilpa mean?
Shilpa means "Artistic, skilled" — 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 Shilpa?
Shilpa is currently ranked #914 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 Shilpa?
Shilpa 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.
How do you pronounce the name Shilpa?
Shilpa is a two-syllable name pronounced SH IH1 L P AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Shilpa a common or rare name?
Shilpa is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.