Shepherd

1. Home
2. Girl Names
3. Shepherd

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

Shepherd - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Shepherd

S-H-E-P-H-E-R-D, is a 8-letter female given name.

Meaning of Shepherd

Sheep herder.

Origin of Shepherd

The name 'Shepherd' has English origins. It is derived from the Middle English word 'shepherde', which means someone who tends to and cares for sheep. The occupation of a shepherd has been an integral part of rural life in England for centuries, and the name 'Shepherd' emerged as a surname to denote individuals who worked in this profession.

English Names

Nature Names

Occupational Names

Surname Names

Popularity of Shepherd

As a given name, 'Shepherd' is not as commonly used as other traditional names. It is considered to be a unique and distinctive choice for parents seeking a name that evokes pastoral imagery or has a connection to nature. The popularity of the name 'Shepherd' has seen a gradual increase in recent years, albeit still remaining relatively uncommon.

Shepherd currently has no likes. Be the first to like this name.

Vote for Shepherd

Etymology of Shepherd

The etymology of 'Shepherd' can be traced back to Old English, where the word 'sceaphierde' was used to refer to a person who looked after sheep. The term is a combination of 'sceap', meaning 'sheep', and 'hierde', meaning 'herder' or 'guardian'. Over time, the word evolved into the Middle English form 'shepherde' and eventually became a surname and given name.

Cultural Significance of Shepherd

The name 'Shepherd' carries cultural significance, particularly in English-speaking countries with a strong agricultural heritage. It symbolizes the pastoral lifestyle and the role of the shepherd in caring for and protecting their flock. The name 'Shepherd' embodies qualities such as nurturing, guidance, and watchfulness, which are associated with the traditional image of a shepherd.