Shannon is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "Sionnaigh," which means "wild or undulating." The name is associated with the Shannon River in Ireland, one of the longest rivers in Europe and historically significant for its role in transportation and commerce.
The use of the name Shannon can be traced back to ancient times. In Irish mythology, it was often used as a personal name for women, but it also appears as a surname. One notable example is that of the legendary Queen Shannon, who ruled over the mythical land of Connacht.
Over time, Shannon has become more widely recognized as a female given name, particularly in English-speaking countries like Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It gained popularity during the mid-20th century and remained relatively common throughout the latter half of the century.
Today, Shannon continues to be an appealing choice for parents looking for a unique yet meaningful name for their daughters. Its Irish origins and association with the historic Shannon River add a touch of mystique and elegance to this beautiful name.
The name Shanon experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years. In its early years, it saw a steady increase from just 5 births in 1944 to a peak of 60 births in 1963. However, from the late 1960s onwards, there was a sharp decline, reaching as low as 5 births in some recent years (2007, 2010, and 2019). Overall, Shanon has been given to 4818 babies since 1944.