Looking for boy names starting with "Sh"? Here's a list of 10 names that stand out for their sound, meaning, and history. Each name offers a unique blend of cultural roots and modern appeal:
- Sharif: Arabic for "noble" or "honorable", with historical ties to the Prophet Muhammad's lineage.
- Shawn: A phonetic English version of the Irish Seán, meaning "God is gracious."
- Shane: An Irish name with the same meaning as Shawn, often associated with the rugged charm of Western films.
- Shiloh: Hebrew for "tranquil" or "his gift", with biblical and historical significance.
- Shaun: Another variant of Seán, popularized by cultural icons like Shaun White.
- Shaan: A cross-cultural name meaning "pride" or "peaceful", depending on its origin.
- Shrey: Sanskrit for "auspicious" or "excellent", commonly used in Indian communities.
- Shay: Irish and Hebrew roots, meaning "dauntless" or "gift."
- Sherman: English occupational name meaning "shear man", with strong historical ties.
- Sholto: A Scottish name meaning "sower", linked to the Douglas clan's ancestry.
These names combine depth and style, offering options for parents seeking meaningful and memorable choices.
10 Boy Names Starting with Sh: Meanings, Origins & Popularity Rankings
1. Sharif
Meaning and Origin
The name Sharif comes from the Arabic word sharufa, which translates to "noble" or "honorable". It’s a name that crosses linguistic boundaries, appearing in Arabic, Urdu, Persian, and other languages. This wide usage reflects its deep historical and cultural significance.
Cultural and Historical Background
Sharif carries a distinguished legacy. Historically, it was a title given to descendants of the Prophet Muhammad through his daughter Fatima, symbolizing virtue and dignity in many Muslim communities. The name also gained global recognition through iconic figures like Egyptian-born actor Omar Sharif, celebrated for his performances in Lawrence of Arabia and Doctor Zhivago. Other prominent namesakes include Nawaz Sharif, a former Prime Minister of Pakistan, and Sharif Atkins, an American actor known for his roles in ER and White Collar.
Why It Works Today
Sharif is experiencing a modern revival, blending its rich heritage with contemporary appeal. Interest in the name spiked by 1,000% in just one week on major naming platforms as of January 30, 2026. In the United States, it climbed 1,406 spots to rank #984 in 2024. Its timeless elegance and melodic sound make it a favorite among parents seeking a name with both depth and style.
"If you can already sense baby's promising future, Sharif will highlight their glowing potential."
- Rhayn Abner, Senior Content Writer, The Bump
sbb-itb-f13f980
2. Shawn
Meaning and Origin
Shawn is the phonetic English adaptation of the Irish name Seán, which itself traces back to the Hebrew name Yochanan (John). The meaning of the name is "God is gracious", blending the Hebrew elements Yahweh (God) and ḥanan (to be gracious).
Cultural and Historical Background
The name Shawn gained notable traction in the United States during the 1970s, becoming a familiar choice thanks to its association with influential figures across various fields. From Shawn Corey Carter (better known as Jay-Z) in music to legendary wrestler Shawn Michaels and beloved TV characters in shows like Boy Meets World and Psych, the name has consistently been in the spotlight. More recently, Canadian singer Shawn Mendes has helped keep the name relevant, particularly in the world of modern pop music. These figures have contributed to Shawn's enduring recognition and charm.
Why It Works Today
With its strong history and approachable sound, Shawn maintains a solid presence, ranking #638 in the U.S. as of 2024. Over 500 boys were named Shawn in contrast to approximately 800 receiving the Irish spelling, Sean. Parents are drawn to its straightforward yet classic vibe, often describing it as a "Millennial classic" - a name that feels familiar and comforting without being overused.
"Shawn is an English name derived from Sean, which means 'God is gracious.' It's a classic choice that combines a timeless meaning with a friendly, approachable sound."
3. Shane
Meaning and Origin
Shane is an Anglicized version of the Irish name Seán, which means "God is gracious." Its roots go back to the Hebrew name Yochanan, carrying the same meaning. This name is especially popular in Northern Ireland, where the Ulster dialect has shaped its pronunciation. Interestingly, some sources also link Shane to the Yiddish word Shayna, which translates to "beautiful." These layered origins give Shane a rich and diverse background.
Cultural and Historical Background
Shane's rise to fame in the United States owes much to its cinematic debut. The 1953 Western film Shane introduced audiences to a mysterious, heroic gunslinger, turning the name into a symbol of rugged charm. This exposure helped the name cross over from its Irish roots to mainstream American culture. By 1969, Shane had reached its height in popularity, riding the wave of Western-themed trends. Its appeal has endured over the decades, even making appearances in modern pop culture, such as the hit series The Walking Dead.
"Shane is the denim jacket of baby names: effortlessly cool, rugged, and entirely timeless."
Why It Works Today
With its single-syllable simplicity and Irish-Western flair, Shane continues to hold a special appeal. Ranked at #601 in the U.S., it’s a name that feels familiar yet not overused. Its steady popularity makes it a dependable choice for parents looking for something classic but not overly trendy. Shane works beautifully as a first or middle name and pairs effortlessly with longer names like Alexander or Christopher, offering flexibility and charm in equal measure.
4. Shiloh
Meaning and Origin
Shiloh is a Hebrew name that translates to "tranquil" or "peaceful" and can also mean "his gift" or "the one to whom it belongs." Its roots run deep in biblical history, most notably as the name of an ancient city in Israel where the Ark of the Covenant was housed before the Temple in Jerusalem was built. In Genesis 49:10, Shiloh is even mentioned as a prophetic title associated with the Messiah. This blend of spiritual and historical significance gives Shiloh a timeless appeal.
Cultural and Historical Background
Shiloh’s significance extends far beyond its biblical origins. It represents a pivotal location in both religious and historical contexts. In addition to its biblical ties, Shiloh was the site of a major Civil War battle in Tennessee. The name also became well-known through Phyllis Reynolds Naylor’s 1991 Newbery Medal–winning novel Shiloh, which tells the touching story of a rescued beagle. The book’s success led to a series of family films, further cementing the name in popular culture.
Why It Works Today
Shiloh has found a strong following among modern parents. In 2024, it ranked #336 for boys in the U.S. and first entered the Top 1000 for boys back in 2015. Its smooth sound and the fashionable "o" ending make it a compelling choice, fitting right in with popular names like Milo and Leo. Some well-known individuals carrying the name include actor Shiloh Fernandez, recognized for his roles in movies like Evil Dead and Red Riding Hood, and NFL player Shiloh Keo. With its mix of ancient roots and contemporary charm, Shiloh offers a gender-neutral option that feels both meaningful and stylish for today’s parents.
5. Shaun
Meaning and Origin
Shaun is a phonetic variant of the Irish name Seán, which translates to "God is gracious." Its roots can be traced through the Old French name Jehan, the Latin Johannes, and ultimately to the Hebrew Yōḥānān. This rich lineage reflects its enduring appeal and historical depth.
Cultural and Historical Background
The name Shaun gained widespread recognition in 1976, thanks to Shaun Cassidy's rise to fame. This moment in pop culture helped the name climb to its peak U.S. popularity, reaching #121 during the 1980s. In more recent times, Shaun has stayed in the public eye through notable figures like Olympic snowboarder Shaun White. It has also made its mark in entertainment, featuring prominently in the TV series The Good Doctor with Dr. Shaun Murphy and the iconic British film Shaun of the Dead.
Why It Works Today
Shaun continues to resonate for its straightforward elegance and timeless appeal. As of January 2026, it ranks at #1963 in U.S. name popularity. The name strikes a balance between being familiar yet not overly common, offering a modern simplicity with its single-syllable structure. Parents often describe it as "strong" and "simple", making it an attractive choice for those seeking a name with Irish roots that feels both classic and contemporary. Its ease of spelling and pronunciation adds to its ongoing charm.
6. Shaan
Meaning and Origin
The name Shaan carries a variety of meanings across different languages and cultures. In Hindi and Sanskrit, it translates to pride, dignity, or glory. In Arabic, it signifies greatness, majesty, status, or honor. In Hebrew, it means peaceful, while in Persian, it conveys worthiness or excellence. Additionally, in Irish/Gaelic, it is a variant of John, meaning "God is gracious".
Cultural and Historical Background
Several notable individuals have brought recognition to the name Shaan. These include Pakistani cricket captain Shaan Masood and Indian playback singer Shaan (Shantanu Mukherjee), who helped popularize the name. It saw its peak usage in the U.S. in 2009, with 113 occurrences per million births. The name also gained attention in the 2023 series The Night Manager.
Why It Works Today
Shaan fits seamlessly into modern naming trends, which favor short, impactful names with broad, cross-cultural resonance. On January 30, 2026, interest in the name spiked by an impressive 1,000% on Nameberry. Its straightforward pronunciation ("sh-awn") makes it accessible across languages, appealing to multicultural families. While traditionally masculine in South Asia, it is increasingly being adopted as a gender-neutral name in Western contexts. Currently, it ranks #1,278 for boys on The Bump. Next, discover another "Sh" name with its own unique story in section 7.
7. Shrey
Meaning and Origin
The name Shrey comes from Sanskrit, originating from the word "śréyas", which translates to "auspicious", "excellent", or "superior." This name is commonly found in India and among Indian communities worldwide, reflecting strong Hindu traditions. Many parents choose Shrey as a way to express their wishes for a bright and successful future for their child.
Cultural and Historical Background
In the U.S., Shrey saw its highest popularity in 2010, when it was given to 42 out of every million babies, earning it the rank of #2,862. As of January 28, 2026, it has dropped to #3,845, based on BabyCenter user data. Globally, it is ranked at #7,911, but it enjoys greater popularity in India, where it holds the rank of #1,425. The name has even found a place in popular culture, featuring in the romantic novel If It's Not Forever by Durjoy Datta and Nikita Singh.
Why It Works Today
Shrey aligns well with the modern preference for short, meaningful names that combine traditional significance with a global appeal. Its straightforward pronunciation ("Shray") and positive associations make it a strong choice for families looking for a name that honors Indian heritage while resonating internationally. Plus, it offers playful nickname options like Rey, Shreyu, or Shree, adding a touch of versatility. Looking for something similar? Explore more "Sh" names for equally charming alternatives.
8. Shay
Meaning and Origin
Shay is the anglicized version of the Irish name Shea (Seaghdha), which can mean "dauntless", "fine", or "hawk-like" [55–57]. It's also tied to the Irish surname O'Shea, translating to "descendant of Shea". On top of its Irish roots, Shay is a variation of the Hebrew name Shai, meaning "gift" [55,56]. This dual origin allows parents to choose a meaning that resonates most with their family, giving the name a rich and layered significance.
Cultural and Historical Background
In Ireland, Shay was ranked #50 in 2024. It also appeared at #159 in Scotland and #394 in England and Wales that same year. In the United States, it held the #981 spot, with BabyCenter data noting a rise to #1,392 for 2026 - a jump of 155 places from the previous year [55,57]. The name has a strong connection to Irish sports through figures like Shay Given.
Why It Works Today
"Gentle yet rugged, cool but established, Shay is straightforward and memorable." - Nameberry
With its short, one-syllable form and unisex charm, Shay feels modern yet grounded. Its presence in pop culture, from Spencer Shay in iCarly to Shay Patrick Cormac in Assassin's Creed: Rogue, ensures it stays relevant while maintaining a timeless quality.
9. Sherman
Meaning and Origin
Sherman is an English occupational name that translates to "shear man" or "cloth shearer". Its roots trace back to Old English, stemming from the Middle English terms scearra (shears) and mann (man). Historically, it described someone who trimmed cloth with shears, removing its nap. The origin of the name reflects its association with precision and craftsmanship.
Cultural and Historical Background
Sherman carries a lot of weight in American history. Roger Sherman, for instance, was the only person to sign all three of the United States' foundational documents: the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the U.S. Constitution. Another notable figure is Civil War General William Tecumseh Sherman, who further cemented the name's historical significance.
The name reached its peak popularity in the U.S. during the 1890s, ranking at #193, though it has since become less common, recently ranking #4,840 - a reflection of its vintage charm making a comeback. Sherman has also made its mark in pop culture, appearing in characters like Sherman from The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show and Colonel Sherman T. Potter from M*A*S*H. These cultural and historical associations add to the name's timeless appeal.
Why It Works Today
"Sherman is a refined boy's name of English origin... a name that is going to get you attention!" - Emily Bagg, Contributing Writer, The Bump
Sherman fits neatly into the trend of vintage names making a modern comeback. Its rarity gives it a unique edge, while its classic feel makes it a strong, distinguished choice for parents today. Like other occupational surnames turned first names - such as Taylor or Carter - Sherman offers a blend of tradition and contemporary appeal. Often described as mature, formal, and wholesome, the name strikes a balance between strength and approachability. This makes it an excellent option for those seeking a name that's both uncommon and steeped in history. Up next, discover another vintage 'Sh' name that's gaining traction in the modern era.
10. Sholto
Meaning and Origin
Sholto is a classic Scottish name with roots in the Gaelic word Sìoltach, meaning "sower" - someone who plants seeds. It might also have ties to Sólus (interpreted as "light" or "brightness") or Siolta (meaning "high-born" or "noble"), evoking ideas of growth and prosperity.
Cultural and Historical Background
Sholto carries a strong connection to Scotland's history. According to tradition, Sholto Douglas is considered the legendary ancestor of the influential Douglas clan. The name also links to Saint Sholto, a 7th-century Scottish saint. Beyond its historical significance, Sholto has appeared in classic literature, such as Elizabeth Gaskell's 1855 novel North and South and Arthur Conan Doyle's The Sign of the Four, where it is used as a surname (Major Sholto).
In modern times, notable figures like Olympic rower Sholto Carnegie and wheelchair rugby player Sholto Taylor have kept the name alive.
Why It Works Today
Sholto's rich history makes it a standout choice in today's naming landscape.
"Rugged but gentle, Sholto is a traditional Scottish first name, especially within the Douglas clan, with Sholto Douglas being its mythical ancestor." - Sophie Kihm, Editor at Nameberry
The name aligns with the trend of boy names ending in "o", such as Arlo and Milo. By January 2026, Sholto ranked #740 on Nameberry and saw a 51% surge in popularity during the final week of the month. Often described as "Hipster British" and "Posh", Sholto strikes a balance between being rare and recognizable. It also remains absent from U.S. birth statistics, making it an exceptional and distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with depth and literary appeal.
Conclusion
These ten "Sh" names offer a blend of rich origins and modern flair. Whether you're drawn to the gender-neutral charm of Shiloh and Shay, the sleek simplicity of Shaan and Shrey, or the way these names connect across different languages, there's something here to suit every family's vision.
Think about what matters most to you - spiritual meaning, honoring heritage, or a mix of timeless and contemporary vibes.
Over time, naming trends have shifted, yet names like Shiloh continue to hold their appeal. It's no surprise that modern parents are gravitating toward names like Shaan - familiar yet distinctive, striking a balance between standing out and feeling authentic.
If you're still searching, try NameHatch's swipe-based search tool. It adapts to your preferences, helping you discover names that align perfectly with your family's style and values.
Find the name that feels like home.
FAQs
What cultural meanings are associated with boy names starting with 'Sh'?
Boy names that begin with "Sh" often hold rich layers of meaning, reflecting traditions, spirituality, and history across different cultures.
In Arabic, for example, names like Shaban are associated with the eighth month of the Islamic calendar, a time of religious importance. Similarly, in Hindu traditions, names like Shiva carry profound spiritual weight, symbolizing both destruction and renewal - a balance of opposing forces deeply rooted in the culture's beliefs.
Persian and Urdu names, such as Shahriar and Shahzain, bring to mind images of royalty and leadership. These names often translate to meanings like "The King" or "Crown of a King", emphasizing values like strength, respect, and heritage.
Names starting with "Sh" often weave together themes of spirituality, nobility, and cultural pride, making them both meaningful and timeless options for parents looking for something with depth and tradition.
How can I pick a name that feels both traditional and modern?
Finding the perfect name that bridges tradition and modernity requires striking the right balance. Traditional names often carry a deep sense of heritage, reflecting cultural, historical, or religious significance. They connect us to our roots and provide a timeless quality. On the other hand, modern names stand out with their fresh and trendy vibe, appealing to contemporary tastes. Names like Shivansh or Shaurya are great examples - they’re grounded in tradition but still feel relevant today.
Another approach is to give traditional names a modern twist by updating their pronunciation or spelling. For instance, names like Shane or Shayan retain a classic essence while sounding current. You could also combine a traditional first name, such as Shiv, with a more modern middle name to create a distinctive blend. Ultimately, the ideal name is one that respects your heritage while feeling stylish and meaningful in today’s world.
Can 'Sh' names work as gender-neutral options?
Yes, plenty of names starting with "Sh" work wonderfully as gender-neutral options, depending on what resonates with you. For example, Shiloh, Shayan, and Skylar are popular for both boys and girls. Shiloh, a Hebrew name meaning "peace", has been a unisex favorite for generations.
Other options like Shawn, Shane, and Shaan are equally flexible and growing in popularity as gender-neutral choices. These names not only have a modern vibe but also come with meaningful origins, making them appealing and inclusive for any child.
