Find out how popular the first name Shaka has been for the last 49 years (from 1974 to 2022) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Shaka by gender

Based on the last 49 years of data, Shaka is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 82% of people named Shaka being male.

For the most recent data in 2022, there were 15 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Shaka.

The history of the first name Shaka

The name Shaka is of African origin, deriving from the Zulu language spoken by the Zulu people of Southern Africa. It gained prominence in the early 19th century, associated with the renowned Zulu king and military leader Shaka Zulu, who was born around 1787.

Shaka Zulu was instrumental in transforming the Zulu Kingdom into a formidable military force, known for his innovative military tactics and strategies. He is credited with introducing the iconic short stabbing spear and the distinctive circular military formation known as the "buffalo horns" formation.

The name Shaka is believed to be derived from the Zulu word "ishaka," meaning "intestinal beetle" or "thick milkshake." It was reportedly given to the young Shaka due to his physical appearance and his propensity for causing trouble as a child.

While Shaka Zulu is undoubtedly the most famous historical figure associated with this name, there are other notable individuals who have borne the name throughout history. One such person is Shaka Senghor, an American author, and criminal justice reform activist born in 1975. He spent 19 years in prison before being released in 2010 and has since become a prominent voice advocating for prison reform.

Another significant figure is Shaka Ssali, a Ugandan boxer who competed in the heavyweight division during the late 20th century. He represented Uganda at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City and won a bronze medal, becoming the first Ugandan to win an Olympic medal.

In the realm of entertainment, Shaka Zulu, born Stephane Cedric Ankirighian in 1964, is a French rapper and actor of Armenian descent. He gained popularity in the 1990s as part of the hip-hop group Assassin, and later pursued a successful acting career, appearing in numerous French films and television shows.

Additionally, Shaka Hislop, born in 1969, is a former professional football (soccer) player from Trinidad and Tobago. He had a long and successful career as a goalkeeper, playing for various clubs in England, including Newcastle United and West Ham United, as well as representing his national team at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

While the name Shaka has its roots in the Zulu language and culture, it has transcended its origins and gained recognition worldwide, particularly through the legacy of the legendary Shaka Zulu and the accomplishments of notable individuals who have borne this name throughout history.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Shaka was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Shaka, please contact us.

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