Meaning, origin, history
Shaun is a male given name of Irish origin and meaning. It is derived from the Irish surname "Seanan," which is in turn derived from the English name "John." The name John means "God is gracious" or "gift of God." Therefore, Shaun can also be interpreted as having the same meaning.
The name Shaun has been used as a given name since the mid-20th century. It gained popularity during the 1970s and 1980s, particularly in English-speaking countries such as Ireland, England, and the United States. Today, it is still commonly used and can be found in many parts of the world.
Shaun is often spelled with a single "n" at the end, but variants with two "ns" (e.g., Shawn) are also common. The name is typically pronounced /ʃɔːn/ in English-speaking countries, rhyming with "lawn."
Overall, Shaun is a strong and distinctive given name with Irish roots and a meaningful interpretation. Its popularity has waned somewhat since its peak in the late 20th century but remains a classic choice for parents looking for a traditional yet unique name for their baby boy.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Shaun since 1880
Total births
70,283
Total since 1880
Peak year
1978
6,105 births
in 2023
118
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-34%
↘
vs previous 5 years