Sheila

What does the baby name Sheila mean? Learn about what Sheila means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Sheila - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Sheila: S-H-E-I-L-A, is a 6-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Sheila: SHEE-lə
Meaning of Sheila: Blind, heaven, blinded, heavenly, shinning one.
Origin of Sheila: The name 'Sheila' has its roots in Gaelic and Irish origins. It is believed to be a variant of the name 'Cecilia', which means 'blind' or 'sixth' in Latin. The earliest known use of the name can be traced back to the 18th century in Ireland. It gained popularity among Irish families and eventually spread to other English-speaking countries.; American Names; Celtic Names; Gaelic Names; Irish Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Sheila: Seila; Selia; Shayla; Sheela; Sheilagh; Shela; Shelia; Shiela
Popularity of Sheila: Over the years, the popularity of the name 'Sheila' has had its ups and downs. In the mid-20th century, it experienced a notable spike in usage, particularly in the United States and Australia. During this time, it was considered a fashionable and trendy name, often associated with youthful charm and beauty. However, its popularity gradually declined in the late 20th century, and it is now less commonly used.; Sheila currently has 209 likes, and is in the top 4% of liked girl's names. The name Reyna is slightly more popular than Sheila.

Etymology of Sheila

The etymology of the name 'Sheila' is fascinating. As mentioned earlier, it is derived from the name 'Cecilia', which has Latin origins. 'Cecilia' was a popular name among early Christians, and it is associated with Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music. The transition from 'Cecilia' to 'Sheila' is believed to have occurred through the Irish pronunciation of the name.

Cultural Significance of Sheila

In Irish culture, the name 'Sheila' holds a special place. It is often associated with strong, independent women who possess a sense of resilience and determination. In addition, the name is sometimes linked to the Irish mythological figure of the Banshee, a supernatural being believed to foretell death. This connection adds an air of mystique and intrigue to the name.