Rising since 2022, #13,208 for girls today.
Popularity of Shir since 1990
Babies named Shir per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 66 |
| 2000s | 77 |
| 2010s | 42 |
| 2020s | 11 |
Meaning & origin
Shir, a Hebrew word name meaning 'song,' has seen modest but steady usage in the United States since it was first recorded in 1990. As of 2025, it ranks at #13,208 and occurs in approximately 1 in 267,878 births, reflecting its rarity. The name reached its highest rank in 2009, but after a period of decline it has been rising again since 2022. Unlike many names that peak and fade, Shir's trajectory suggests a slow but consistent interest. It has not appeared among the top baby names in any state, remaining a niche choice. The name's appeal lies in its lyrical simplicity and deep cultural resonance within Hebrew-speaking communities.
Shir derives from the Hebrew noun שִׁיר (shir), meaning 'song' or 'poem.' It appears in biblical contexts, such as Shir HaShirim (Song of Songs). In modern Hebrew the name gained usage during the 20th century alongside other nature and abstract word names.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Shira
Sibling names for Shir
Names that share Shir's style, for a brother or sister.
