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Shae Unisex

Popularity: #862 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: shay //ʃeɪ//

Origin: Irish; English

Meaning: Irish: 'admirable'; English: 'from the fairy palace'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Shae is believed to have roots in the Irish name Shea, which itself is derived from the Gaelic name "Séaghdha," meaning "admirable" or "hawk-like." The transition from Séaghdha to Shea occurred as the name was Anglicized, particularly during the 19th century when Irish names were adapted to fit English phonetics. The spelling Shae likely emerged as a modern variation, reflecting contemporary naming trends that favor unique or phonetic spellings.

Historically, the name Shea has been associated with various figures in Irish history and literature. Notably, Shea has been used as a surname and has connections to notable Irish families and clans.

The name's association with the Gaelic language and culture has contributed to its enduring presence in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora. The use of Shea in literature can be traced back to the 19th century, with its presence in Irish poetry and folklore, which often celebrated the virtues of bravery and nobility, aligning with the name's meanings.

Culturally, the name Shae and its variants have resonated within communities that value heritage and tradition. The name embodies qualities of strength and admiration, making it a fitting choice for those who wish to honor their Irish roots.

Additionally, diminutive forms like Shay have emerged, further enriching the name's cultural tapestry. The evolution of Shae reflects broader trends in naming practices, where traditional names are adapted to suit modern sensibilities while retaining their historical significance.

Famous people named Shae

Shae Ward is a musician best known for her work in the country music genre.
Shae-Lynn Bourne is a former competitive ice dancer best known for winning the World Ice Dance Championships.
Shae McGowan is a professional rugby player best known for playing with the Australian national team.

Fictional characters named Shae

Shae is a fictional character from the TV series Game of Thrones. She is a courtesan who becomes a significant figure in the life of Tyrion Lannister.

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U.S. Historical Usage

The name Shae was first seen in the United States in 1951. Shae has ranked as high as #1038 nationally, which occurred in 1998, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Florida. In the past 5 years the name Shae has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Shae (2024)

State Births Share
NY 11
30%
MA 9
24%
PA 7
19%
CA 5
14%
IL 5
14%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
195111
19525
19597
19615
196212
19637
19649
196511
196611
196714
196816
196919
197043
197145
197234
197352
197447
197549
197655
197747
197847
197954
198049
198163
198259
198352
198450
198550
198674
1987104
1988105
1989129
199098
1991139
1992118
1993177
1994166
1995178
1996184
1997190
1998227
1999203
2000173
2001150
2002157
2003146
2004177
2005135
2006150
2007134
2008114
2009115
201092
201178
201281
2013132
2014100
2015129
201699
201778
2018109
201995
202091
2021116
202299
2023119
202488