Sheila is a female name of Irish origin, derived from the Irish Gaelic word "Séile" which means "she is abundant in peace." The name Sheila has been traditionally associated with Ireland and has gained popularity worldwide due to its unique sound and meaning.
The name Sheila was first brought into prominence by the Irish poet and playwright, William Butler Yeats. He used it as the central character's name in his play titled "Sheila's Way of the World," which premiered in 1894. This exposure further popularized the name among English-speaking countries.
Through time, Sheila has been interpreted differently across cultures. In some traditions, it is believed to symbolize a peaceful and tranquil spirit. In others, it signifies strength and resilience due to its association with the Irish heritage known for its fiery independence.
Today, Sheila remains a popular choice as a given name among parents around the world who appreciate its unique sound, historical significance, and profound meaning. Despite being rooted deeply in Irish culture, it has transcended geographical boundaries and has become a global name of choice.
The name Shelia has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the century. Starting with just five births in 1915, it peaked in 1953 with 1484 births. After that, there was a steady decline, reaching an all-time low of 7 births in both 2022 and 2023. Overall, there have been 47,780 babies named Shelia since 1915.