Shawna is a unique and distinctive female given name of American origin. It is believed to have emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century, likely as a variant spelling of the more traditional name Shawnee, which has Native American roots.
The name Shawna is thought to be derived from the Shawnee tribe, one of the most prominent Native American tribes that originally inhabited the Ohio River valley. The Shawnee people are known for their rich cultural heritage and their influential role in shaping the history of early America. Therefore, the name Shawna may carry a connection to this significant cultural background.
While there is no definitive meaning attributed to the name Shawna itself, its association with the Shawnee tribe suggests a possible interpretation tied to the tribe's history or values. Some sources suggest that Shawna could mean "southerner" or "from the south," reflecting the Shawnee people's migration patterns and original territories.
Throughout history, various notable individuals have borne the name Shawna, helping to popularize it further. For instance, Shawna McClendon is a prominent American soccer player, while Shawna Loughnane is an Irish hurdler who has represented her country at international competitions.
In summary, Shawna is a compelling female given name with roots in Native American culture and history. Its unique sound and distinctive spelling make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a memorable name for their daughter. Despite its origins, the name Shawna does not carry any specific meaning, allowing those who bear it to create their own personal identity and story.
The popularity of the name Shawna seems to have followed a distinct trend over time. Initially, it was quite uncommon with only single-digit births per year from 1941 to 1968. However, starting around 1969, there was a significant increase in its usage, peaking in 1972 with 1666 births, and remaining high until the mid-1980s.
After this peak, the frequency of the name began to decline steadily, reaching levels similar to the early years by the late 1990s. This downward trend continued into the 2000s, with fewer than 50 births per year occurring since 2013. The most recent data from 2022 shows only 15 births.
In total, over 45,502 babies were named Shawna between 1941 and 2023.