Holding steady.
Popularity of Shila since 1941
Babies named Shila per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 24 |
| 1950s | 25 |
| 1960s | 76 |
| 1970s | 205 |
| 1980s | 239 |
| 1990s | 204 |
| 2000s | 191 |
| 2010s | 106 |
| 2020s | 10 |
Meaning & origin
Shila is a name with layered origins, possibly deriving from Sanskrit meaning 'mountain' or 'rock', or serving as a variant of the Irish name Sheila. It first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1941, and its peak year was 1975, reflecting interest during the 1970s when many short, melodic names were in vogue. Despite not ranking in recent years, Shila has maintained a stable trajectory, with occasional use across the country. Its dual heritage gives it a distinctive multicultural appeal, fitting for families seeking a name with both spiritual depth and Celtic warmth.
Shila has multiple possible origins. In Sanskrit, it can mean 'mountain' or 'rock', and appears in Hindu texts. It is also a common name in India and Nepal. Alternatively, Shila can be a variant of Sheila, the anglicized form of the Irish name Síle, which itself is a form of Cecilia, derived from the Latin 'caecus' meaning 'blind'. The name entered U.S. records in 1941 and saw peak usage in 1975, favored primarily in the 1970s.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Shee
Sibling names for Shila
Names that share Shila's style, for a brother or sister.
