Holding steady.
Popularity of Shiela since 1908
Babies named Shiela per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 7 |
| 1910s | 5 |
| 1920s | 50 |
| 1930s | 160 |
| 1940s | 535 |
| 1950s | 940 |
| 1960s | 1,355 |
| 1970s | 906 |
| 1980s | 300 |
| 1990s | 135 |
| 2000s | 15 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Shiela first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1908, but its peak popularity occurred in 1970, reflecting a broader trend of Irish names in mid-20th century America. Despite its historical use, the name has maintained a stable trajectory in recent decades, with no significant rise or decline in the latest year recorded, 2025. Although it does not have a current rank or a one-in-N incidence rate, its sustained usage among families seeking a distinctive spelling of the classic Sheila makes it a recognizable choice with Irish heritage.
Shiela is a variant spelling of Sheila, the anglicized form of the Irish name Síle, which itself is an Irish borrowing of Cecilia. Cecilia is a feminine form of the Roman family name Caecilius, derived from Latin caecus "blind." The name was introduced to Ireland through Anglo-Norman settlers and became popular as an English-language equivalent of Síle.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Shea, Shay
Sibling names for Shiela
Names that share Shiela's style, for a brother or sister.
