Shai Unisex
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: SHY //ʃaɪ//
Origin: Hebrew; Chinese
Meaning: Hebrew: 'gift'; Chinese: 'victory'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Shai has its roots in Hebrew, deriving from the word "שַׁי" (pronounced "shai"), which translates to "gift" or "present." This etymology reflects a deep cultural significance, as names in Hebrew often carry meanings that reflect virtues, attributes, or blessings. The name has been used in various forms throughout Jewish history, and its adoption into other languages and cultures has been influenced by the Hebrew diaspora and the spread of Jewish communities across the globe.
Historically, the name Shai has been associated with various figures in Jewish texts and traditions. While it may not be linked to a specific biblical character, its meaning resonates with the themes of gratitude and divine gifts, which are prevalent in Jewish liturgy and teachings.
The name has been used in various forms in Hebrew literature and religious texts, particularly during the medieval period when Hebrew names were often adopted by Jewish communities in Europe. The name's presence in these texts underscores its cultural and spiritual significance within Jewish tradition.
Culturally, Shai embodies the notion of appreciation and the value of life’s blessings, making it a name that carries positive connotations. The name has also been embraced in modern Hebrew-speaking communities, where it is often used as a standalone name or as a diminutive of longer names that incorporate the root "shai." This adaptability has allowed the name to maintain its relevance across generations, reflecting the enduring nature of its meaning and the cultural values it represents.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Shai was first seen in the United States in 1971. Shai has ranked as high as #1152 nationally, which occurred in 2023, and has been most popular in New York, California, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Shai has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Shai (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 30 | |
| NY | 22 | |
| FL | 14 | |
| IL | 12 | |
| TX | 12 | |
| PA | 10 | |
| OH | 8 | |
| VA | 7 | |
| GA | 7 | |
| MD | 6 | |
| MI | 6 | |
| WA | 6 | |
| TN | 6 | |
| NC | 5 | |
| DC | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1971 | 7 |
| 1972 | 5 |
| 1974 | 7 |
| 1976 | 8 |
| 1979 | 7 |
| 1980 | 7 |
| 1981 | 9 |
| 1982 | 7 |
| 1983 | 7 |
| 1984 | 11 |
| 1985 | 8 |
| 1986 | 5 |
| 1987 | 10 |
| 1988 | 8 |
| 1989 | 8 |
| 1990 | 16 |
| 1991 | 7 |
| 1992 | 12 |
| 1993 | 44 |
| 1994 | 40 |
| 1995 | 38 |
| 1996 | 28 |
| 1997 | 25 |
| 1998 | 27 |
| 1999 | 17 |
| 2000 | 26 |
| 2001 | 23 |
| 2002 | 35 |
| 2003 | 34 |
| 2004 | 33 |
| 2005 | 27 |
| 2006 | 34 |
| 2007 | 42 |
| 2008 | 55 |
| 2009 | 45 |
| 2010 | 45 |
| 2011 | 44 |
| 2012 | 55 |
| 2013 | 50 |
| 2014 | 35 |
| 2015 | 50 |
| 2016 | 52 |
| 2017 | 66 |
| 2018 | 75 |
| 2019 | 98 |
| 2020 | 120 |
| 2021 | 199 |
| 2022 | 219 |
| 2023 | 224 |
| 2024 | 200 |