MallowbyNames

Shuna

SHOO-nuh · Of uncertain origin, possibly a variant of Shona or a form of the Gaelic name Siún.

Peak popularity
1978
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Shuna since 1961

Babies named Shuna per year in U.S. Social Security records.

4913198020002020Most births 1978Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1960s15
1970s78
1980s15
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Shuna is a rare and modern name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1961. It achieved its highest usage in 1978, though it never broke into the top 1000 rankings and remains uncommon. The name's trajectory has been stable, with occasional sparse usage. While its etymology is unclear, Shuna may be a creative variant of Shona or a phonetic spelling of a Gaelic origin, but no definitive origins can be confirmed. This rarity gives it a distinctive quality, appealing to parents seeking a name that feels both simple and unique. The lack of top states or well-known bearers reflects its niche status.

Shuna appears to be a modern coinage or a respelling, possibly influenced by names like Shona (of Scottish origin) or Siún (Irish variant of Joan). It first appears in U.S. records in the 1960s, with its peak usage in 1978. The name has no clear traditional etymology and may have been created as a feminine given name.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Shu

Variants: Shunna

Sibling names for Shuna

Names that share Shuna's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Luna, Maya, Nina, Tara, Zara

Brothers: Kai, Leo, Milo, Theo, Zane

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

S is for Shuna, our favorite little girl.

S is for Shuna…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Shuna's letter becomes Shuna's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Shuna's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Shuna mean?
The meaning of Shuna is uncertain. It may be a modern creation or a variant of names like Shona, which means 'God is gracious' in some contexts, but this is not definitively established.
How popular is the name Shuna?
Shuna has never ranked in the top 1000 U.S. baby names. It peaked in 1978 but remains rare. No recent ranking data is available.
Is Shuna a boy or girl name?
Shuna is predominantly used for girls in U.S. records.