Rising since 2010, #5,099 for girls today.
Popularity of Sham since 1972
Babies named Sham per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | 0 | 14 |
| 1980s | 0 | 6 |
| 1990s | 0 | 5 |
| 2000s | 11 | 6 |
| 2010s | 142 | 5 |
| 2020s | 87 | 0 |
Meaning & origin
The name Sham has a very low profile in the United States. It first appeared in 2001 and reached its peak popularity in 2018, though it has remained unusual. Since 2010, its usage has been rising slightly, reflecting a broader trend of short, simple names. It has been recorded most frequently in California. Given its rarity, Sham offers a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with a modern, minimalist feel.
The name Sham is rare and of uncertain origin. It may be a variant of Shama, a name used in India and among South Asian communities, or a modern invented name. Its usage in the United States began in the early 2000s, and it has remained uncommon.
Where Sham is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Sham” around the world
Where Sham lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
10
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Sibling names for Sham
Names that share Sham's style, for a brother or sister.

