Rising since 2014, #7,885 for girls today.
Popularity of Shalva since 2002
Babies named Shalva per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 30 |
| 2010s | 58 |
| 2020s | 55 |
Meaning & origin
Shalva entered U.S. birth records in 2002, a late arrival compared to many traditional names. It has been on a rising trajectory since 2014, and it reached its peak rank of 7,885 in 2025, the most recent year on record. The name's rarity is underscored by a one-in-123,636 incidence rate. By far the most common state of association is New Jersey, suggesting a concentration among Jewish and Israeli-American families. Shalva's meaning, likely connected to the Hebrew word for 'tranquility', gives it a serene quality, and its upward trend aligns with a broader interest in short, melodic names with Hebrew roots.
The name Shalva is of debated origin. It is thought to derive from the Hebrew word 'shalva' (שַׁלְוָה), meaning 'tranquility', 'well-being', or 'ease'. In modern times, it has been used in Israel and among Hebrew-speaking communities. Its use in the United States has been rare, with recorded usage beginning only in the 21st century.
Where Shalva is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Shalva” around the world
Where Shalva lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Sibling names for Shalva
Names that share Shalva's style, for a brother or sister.
