Declining since 1996.
Popularity of Shun since 1925
Babies named Shun per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1980, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Shun's real moment was 1973.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 5 |
| 1930s | 0 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 59 |
| 1970s | 280 |
| 1980s | 184 |
| 1990s | 137 |
| 2000s | 132 |
| 2010s | 92 |
| 2020s | 20 |
Meaning & origin
Shun is a Japanese name with roots that trace back to at least the early 20th century; the earliest recorded U.S. birth for the name is 1925. The name reached its peak popularity in 1973, but its usage has been on a downward trajectory since 1996, reflecting a broader decline in interest for this distinctive name. Despite its decrease, Shun remains a recognizable choice, particularly for those with ties to Japanese culture. Notably, the name has not registered significant usage in any top state in recent decades, indicating its rarity in the U.S. overall.
Shun is a Japanese name with multiple potential interpretations based on the kanji used. Common readings include 俊 (shun), meaning 'talented, clever, excellence,' or 春 (shun), meaning 'spring.' It may also be associated with 舜 (shun), referring to a legendary Chinese emperor. The name has been used in Japan for centuries and gained international awareness through anime and manga culture.
“Shun” around the world
Where Shun lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Sibling names for Shun
Names that share Shun's style, for a brother or sister.
