Find out how popular the first name Shanard has been for the last 43 years (from 1975 to 2017) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Shanard by gender

Based on the last 43 years of data, Shanard is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2017, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Shanard.

The history of the first name Shanard

The name Shanard is a unique and intriguing one with roots that can be traced back to the ancient Celtic cultures of the British Isles. Its origins lie in the Old Irish language, where it is believed to have been derived from the Gaelic words "sean" meaning "old" or "ancient" and "ard" signifying "high" or "noble." This combination suggests that the name Shanard was originally bestowed upon individuals who were revered for their age, wisdom, and elevated social standing within their communities.

During the medieval period, the name Shanard was primarily found in Ireland and Scotland, where it was borne by various individuals of note. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in the Annals of Ulster, a chronicle of Irish history dating back to the 15th century. Here, a man named Shanard O'Donnell is mentioned as a prominent chieftain who played a pivotal role in defending his clan's lands against rival clans and Viking invaders.

As the centuries passed, the name Shanard continued to hold significance, particularly within the annals of Irish literature and folklore. In the 17th century, a celebrated poet and bard known as Shanard MacNamara gained renown for his poignant verses that captured the spirit and struggles of the Irish people during a tumultuous period of their history.

Crossing the Atlantic, the name Shanard also found its way to the shores of North America, where it was borne by several notable figures. One such individual was Shanard Connolly, a Irish-American soldier who fought valiantly during the American Revolutionary War, earning distinction for his bravery and leadership on the battlefield.

In more recent times, the name Shanard has been carried on by several accomplished individuals, including Shanard O'Brien, an esteemed Irish historian and academic who penned numerous works on the rich cultural heritage of his homeland. Another noteworthy bearer of the name was Shanard Fitzpatrick, a renowned Irish architect whose innovative designs left an indelible mark on the urban landscapes of Dublin and other cities.

While the name Shanard may not be as commonplace as it once was, its storied history and profound connections to the Celtic world ensure that it remains a name imbued with a sense of antiquity, nobility, and enduring cultural significance.

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 Shanard was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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