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Shannon Unisex

Popularity: #843 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationSHAN-uhn / /ˈʃæn.ən/

Irish; English

Meaning

Irish: 'old; ancient'; English: 'from the river Shannon'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Shannon has its roots in the Irish language, derived from the River Shannon, which is the longest river in Ireland. The name itself is believed to come from the Gaelic word "sionna," which means "old" or "wise." This etymological connection to the river highlights the significance of natural landmarks in Irish culture and naming conventions. The river's name is thought to be derived from the goddess Sionna, a figure in Irish mythology, further embedding the name within the cultural and spiritual fabric of Ireland.

Historically, the name Shannon began to be used as a given name in the 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its association with the River Shannon, which has been a vital waterway since ancient times, lends it a sense of historical depth. The river has been referenced in various literary works and has played a role in the cultural identity of the Irish people. While the name itself does not appear in early historical texts or biblical references, its connection to the river and the surrounding folklore provides a rich backdrop to its usage.

Culturally, the name Shannon resonates with themes of nature and femininity, often evoking images of the lush landscapes of Ireland. The name has been embraced in various forms of art and literature, reflecting the beauty and mystique of the Irish countryside. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Shan" have emerged, showcasing the name's adaptability and endearment in personal relationships. Overall, Shannon carries with it a legacy that intertwines geographical significance, mythological roots, and cultural identity, making it a name steeped in history.

Trend Summary

Shannon experienced peak popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Shanon
  • Shan

International Variants

  • Shannon (English)
  • Shan (Chinese)

Famous people named Shannon

Shannon Elizabeth is an actress and model best known for American Pie, Scary Movie, and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back.

Shannon Doherty is an actress best known for Beverly Hills, 90210, Charmed, and Little House on the Prairie.

Shannon Leto is a musician and actor best known as the lead vocalist for Thirty Seconds to Mars and for his role in Requiem for a Dream.

Shannon Hoon was a musician best known as the lead singer of the band Blind Melon and for the hit song No Rain.

Shannon Briggs is a former professional boxer best known for being a two-time heavyweight champion and for his fights against George Foreman and Vitali Klitschko.

Fictional characters named Shannon

Shannon is a fictional character from the TV series The L Word. She is a recurring character who navigates the complexities of relationships within the LGBTQ+ community.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Shannon was first seen in the United States in 1912. Shannon has ranked as high as #51 nationally, which occurred in 1970, and has been most popular in California, New York, Texas, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Shannon has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Shannon (2024)

StateBirthsShare
FL 8
32%
TX 7
28%
IL 5
20%
TN 5
20%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19125
19185
19195
19216
192215
192311
192410
192513
192611
19279
192817
192920
193015
193128
193223
193329
193438
193532
193632
193755
193855
193965
194072
194183
1942126
1943143
1944120
1945119
1946152
1947256
1948219
1949267
1950382
1951374
1952419
1953492
1954558
1955643
1956692
1957709
1958824
19591,007
19601,012
19611,234
19621,394
19632,053
19642,299
19652,570
19662,991
19673,445
19686,402
196910,452
197013,547
197112,647
197210,966
19739,803
197410,608
19759,370
197613,369
197712,519
197810,599
197910,370
19809,670
19819,227
19828,623
19838,425
19848,476
19857,714
19867,403
19876,968
19886,255
19895,660
19905,189
19914,844
19925,290
19936,069
19945,508
19954,733
19964,337
19973,914
19983,278
19992,747
20002,180
20011,906
20021,757
20031,447
20041,255
20051,053
2006919
2007741
2008657
2009543
2010418
2011394
2012327
2013278
2014257
2015249
2016193
2017174
2018148
2019147
202098
2021122
2022108
202396
2024107