Sheldon
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Sheldon
Sheldon, which has 7 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.
Meaning of Sheldon
Town in the valley
The name Sheldon is of Old English origin and is derived from the words ‘sceald’ meaning ‘protector’ and ‘heall’ meaning ‘hill’. It can be interpreted to mean ‘protector of the hill’ or ‘protective hill’.
| Meaning | Town in the valley |
| Origin | English |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #945 in 2012 Rising |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1930s) |
Background & History of The Name Sheldon
The name Sheldon is of English origin and has a rich history. It is derived from the Old English personal name "Sceldan," which means "valley with steep sides." The name first appeared as a surname in the 12th century and gradually became a common given name. Sheldon is predominantly a masculine name, although it can be used for both genders.
In terms of popularity, Sheldon gained traction in the early 20th century in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, England, and Canada. It reached its peak popularity in the 1950s and 1960s when the name was featured in various cultural references, including literature, film, and television. Notably, the character Sheldon Cooper in the popular TV show "The Big Bang Theory" contributed to a resurgence of the name's popularity in recent years.
People named Sheldon are often described as intelligent, independent, and innovative. They possess a strong analytical mind and are known for their problem-solving abilities. Sheldon's inquisitive nature and thirst for knowledge often lead them to excel in academic fields, especially in the sciences. With their logical thinking and meticulous attention to detail, those named Sheldon often thrive in careers such as engineering, mathematics, computer science, or research.
As with any name, Sheldon has various forms and variations across different cultures and languages. For instance, in Hebrew, the name translates to "Shalmon," while in Irish, it is spelled as "Séarán." These variants demonstrate the versatility and adaptability of the name in different linguistic contexts.
In conclusion, the name Sheldon has an English origin and has evolved over time to become a popular given name. It is associated with intelligence, independence, and problem-solving skills. The name's popularity has been influenced by cultural references in literature and media. With its diverse forms in different cultures, the name Sheldon continues to be chosen by parents seeking a name that embodies intellectual prowess and versatility.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Sheldon over the years.
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Common nicknames and short forms for Sheldon.
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