Find out how popular the first name Shelan has been for the last 1 years (from 1987 to 1987) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Shelan by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Shelan is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1987, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Shelan.

The history of the first name Shelan

The name Shelan is believed to have originated from the ancient Celtic language, which was spoken by various tribes across Western Europe, particularly in areas that now constitute parts of modern-day Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. The name is thought to be derived from the Proto-Celtic root word "shel," meaning "calm" or "peaceful."

In some historical records, the name Shelan has been found to have been used in various spellings, such as Shelane, Sheilane, and Sheilann, reflecting the linguistic diversity and evolution of the Celtic languages across different regions. While the exact origins of the name remain shrouded in the mists of antiquity, scholars have suggested that it may have held significant cultural and spiritual connotations for the ancient Celtic peoples, who valued harmony and balance with nature.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Shelan can be traced back to the 6th century, when a chieftain named Shelan mac Fergus is mentioned in the Annals of Ulster, an ancient manuscript that chronicles the history of Ireland. This historical reference suggests that the name was in use among the Celtic tribes of Ireland during that period.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Shelan. In the 12th century, Shelan O'Donnell was a renowned Irish poet and bard, whose works contributed significantly to the preservation of the Irish language and culture. In the 16th century, Shelan MacKenzie was a Scottish clan chief known for his leadership and military prowess during the Scottish Wars of Independence.

Moving forward in time, Shelan Fitzpatrick (1780-1854) was an Irish-born American politician and lawyer who served as a member of the United States House of Representatives. In the 20th century, Shelan O'Connor (1917-1995) was an acclaimed Irish sculptor and artist, whose works are celebrated for their unique blend of traditional and modern styles.

Another notable figure bearing the name Shelan was Shelan Macrae (1928-2010), a Scottish author and historian who dedicated her life to researching and documenting the rich cultural heritage of the Scottish Highlands. Her extensive writings on the history, folklore, and traditions of the region have become invaluable resources for scholars and enthusiasts alike.

While the name Shelan may not be as commonly used today as it once was, its rich historical lineage and cultural significance remain a testament to the enduring legacy of the ancient Celtic peoples and their linguistic traditions.

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

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