All about the name

Sheldon

Female

« Sheldon is an English name derived from Old English 'scylfena' meaning 'little shield,' originally used as an occupational surname for shield-makers. »

#11624 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Sheldon is a unique and distinctive name of English origin that has gained popularity in recent years, particularly after the character Sheldon Cooper became well-known through the popular television show "The Big Bang Theory." However, the name predates the show by many centuries. The name Sheldon is derived from the Old English word 'scylfena' or 'scielden,' which means 'little shield.' This name was originally used as a surname and was given to individuals who worked as shield-makers or were of a shield-like shape. Over time, Sheldon evolved from being a occupational surname to a given name. One of the earliest known records of the name Sheldon is in the Domesday Book of 1086, where it appears as a place name in Yorkshire, England. The village of Sheldon is believed to have taken its name from a man called Sceild who owned land there during the Anglo-Saxon period. The name Sheldon began to be used as a given name in the 19th century, with the first recorded use in the United States being in the late 1800s. Today, Sheldon is considered a unisex name, although it is still more commonly associated with males. Despite its historical roots and unique meaning, Sheldon remains a relatively uncommon name compared to many other popular choices today. However, those who bear this name are often drawn to its distinctive sound and meaningful origin. Whether you're a fan of "The Big Bang Theory" or simply appreciate the history behind this name, Sheldon is sure to make an impression as a unique and memorable choice.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Sheldon since 1880

Total births
496
Total since 1880
Peak year
1994
24 births
in 2002
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years