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Shailene Girl

Popularity: #944 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: SHAY-leen //ˈʃeɪliːn//

Origin: English; American

Meaning: from the mountain; little mountain

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Shailene is believed to be of American origin, likely derived from a combination of the name "Shay" and the suffix "-lene." The name "Shay" itself has roots in Hebrew, where it means "gift" or "to be thankful," while the suffix "-lene" is often associated with names of French origin, such as in "Josephine" or "Evelyn," which typically convey a sense of femininity. This blending of elements reflects a modern trend in name formation that emphasizes both personal significance and aesthetic appeal.

Historically, the name Shailene gained prominence in the late 20th century, particularly in the United States. It is often associated with Shailene Woodley, an American actress who rose to fame in the early 2010s through her roles in popular films and television series.

While the name itself does not have deep historical roots like some traditional names, its emergence in contemporary culture has contributed to its recognition and usage. Culturally, Shailene may evoke themes of nature and beauty, as the prefix "Shai" can be reminiscent of the word "shale," a type of rock, which connects to the earth and natural landscapes.

This association may resonate with parents seeking names that reflect a connection to nature or a modern, unique identity for their children. The name's melodic quality and modern construction contribute to its appeal, making it a distinctive choice in the landscape of contemporary names.

Famous people named Shailene

Shailene Woodley is an actress best known for The Fault in Our Stars, Divergent, and Big Little Lies.

Sibling suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Shailene was first seen in the United States in 1991. Shailene has ranked as high as #1366 nationally, which occurred in 2014, and has been most popular in California. In the past 5 years the name Shailene has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Shailene (2018)

State Births Share
CA 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19915
19935
19957
19965
19995
20015
200914
201011
20117
201219
20136
201429
201525
201622
201714
201821
20197
202014
202114
20229
20236
20246