What does Shira mean and where does it come from?
Shira is a Hebrew name that signifies 'song' or 'poetry.' It is often given to girls born during a time of joyous celebration. Though primarily used in Hebrew-speaking cultures, it has also found popularity in English-speaking countries. The name is often associated with a feeling of joy and musical
Cultural significance
Shira has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of שירה.
Peak popularity
Reached #985 in 1985 — currently #2321 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Shira?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Shira?
Shira works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Shira Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Shira Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Shira Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Shira Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Shira Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Shira Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Shira right now?
Rising — up 21 spots — currently #2321 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #2321 | 79 | ▲ up 21 |
| 2024 | #2342 | 79 | ▲ up 435 · +27% births |
| 2023 | #2777 | 62 | ▼ down 228 · -11% births |
| 2022 | #2549 | 70 | ▼ down 137 · -7% births |
| 2021 | #2412 | 75 | ▲ up 232 · +19% births |
| 2020 | #2644 | 63 | ▼ down 215 · -16% births |
| 2015 | #2429 | 75 | ▼ down 742 · -40% births |
| 2010 | #1687 | 125 | ▼ down 185 · -10% births |
| 2005 | #1502 | 139 | ▲ up 62 · +22% births |
| 2000 | #1564 | 114 | ▲ up 27 · +20% births |
| 1995 | #1591 | 95 | ▼ down 149 · -13% births |
| 1990 | #1442 | 109 | ▼ down 457 · -30% births |
| 1985 | #985 | 155 | ▲ up 217 · +41% births |
| 1980 | #1202 | 110 | ▲ up 287 · +59% births |
| 1975 | #1489 | 69 | — |
The story of Shira
Shira entered American naming records in 1941 and has been in use for over 83 years. With 5,440 total births recorded, Shira remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3392 in 1950 to #2777 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Shira in 1985:
Shira by decade
Shira peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 25 | |
| 1950s | 131 | |
| 1960s | 224 | |
| 1970s | 649 | |
| 1980s | 1,179 | |
| 1990s | 988 | |
| 2000s ★ | 1,324 | |
| 2010s | 857 | |
| 2020s | 221 | |
💎With 5,440 total births, Shira is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Shira?
Famous people named Shira
S(
Shira (historical community leader)
Shira led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
👑
Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2025
Explore →What names sound and feel like Shira?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Shira also consider these
How is Shira written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Shira
What does the name Shira mean?
Shira means "שירה" — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Shira?
Shira 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 Shira?
Shira originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew 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 Shira?
Shira is a two-syllable name pronounced SHER-uh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Shira a common or rare name?
Shira is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.