All about the name

Shena

Female

« Shena is a Hebrew-derived female name meaning 'tooth', associated with Zipporah in Jewish tradition and the goddess Ishtar in Semitic cultures, symbolizing strength and wisdom. »

#23390 over 5 years

Meaning, origin, history

Shena is a unique and captivating female name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "shen," which means "tooth." In Jewish tradition, Shena is associated with the story of Zipporah, Moses' wife, who circumcised their son using a heated stone when God tried to kill Moses because he had not circumcised his son. This act saved Moses' life and Zipporah was named Shena as a result. The name Shena has also been associated with the ancient Semitic goddess Ishtar, who was known for her power over love, beauty, sex, and war. In some cultures, Shena is seen as a symbol of strength, courage, and wisdom. Throughout history, there have been several notable figures named Shena. One such figure is Shena Mackay, a Scottish novelist and short-story writer known for her works that explore themes of identity, memory, and loss. Another notable figure is Shena Simon, an Australian politician who served as the first female Speaker of the House of Representatives in Australia. Today, Shena continues to be a distinctive and intriguing name choice for parents looking for something different for their daughter. It has a unique sound that sets it apart from more common names, while also having a rich history and meaningful origin behind it.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Shena since 1880

Total births
2,356
Total since 1880
Peak year
1984
198 births
in 2018
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years