Declining since 1985.
Popularity of Shanon since 1944
Babies named Shanon per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1940s | 23 | 0 |
| 1950s | 191 | 18 |
| 1960s | 709 | 289 |
| 1970s | 2,071 | 847 |
| 1980s | 1,230 | 330 |
| 1990s | 451 | 162 |
| 2000s | 121 | 74 |
| 2010s | 21 | 12 |
| 2020s | 0 | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Shanon is a spelling variant of Shannon, a name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1944. It reached its peak popularity in 1970, a time when many Celtic-inspired names were on the rise. Since 1985, its usage has been on a downward trajectory, reflecting broader shifts away from once-trendy names. Though not currently ranked in the top 1000, Shanon remains a recognizable choice with a subtle, modern feel. It has not been strongly associated with any particular U.S. state historically, and its unisex nature gives it versatility.
Shanon is likely an Anglicized spelling of the Irish name Shannon, which originally referred to the River Shannon, Ireland's longest river. The river's name is of uncertain Celtic origin, possibly meaning 'old river' or 'possessor of wisdom.' Alternatively, Shanon may be a variant of the Hebrew name Shoshana, meaning 'lily' or 'rose.' The spelling Shanon emerged in the mid-20th century as a simplified form of Shannon.
Where Shanon is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Shanon” around the world
Where Shanon lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Shan, Nonie
Variants: Shannon
Sibling names for Shanon
Names that share Shanon's style, for a brother or sister.
