Shirlene is a unique and distinctive female given name that is of African American origin. It is a variation of Shirley, which means "bright clear" in English. The name Shirlene was popularized during the mid-20th century as a part of the wider trend of naming children with names that ended in "-ene." This trend included other names such as Tamarene, Karen, and Merlene.
The name Shirlene has not been widely used throughout history, but it is most commonly found in African American communities. It is thought to have originated in the Southern United States during the mid-20th century. The name's popularity peaked in the 1950s and 1960s and has since declined.
Despite its relative rarity, Shirlene remains a unique and beautiful name that carries with it a rich cultural history. It is often associated with strength, resilience, and creativity, reflecting the spirit of those who bear this distinctive name.
"The name Shirlene saw its peak popularity between the late 1930s and early 1950s, with a significant drop after the mid-1960s, and only occasional instances of use from the late 1970s onwards."