Sharlayne is a unique and distinctive name of American origin. It was created by author Frank Yerby for the protagonist of his 1958 novel "The Foxes of Harrow," and later popularized in the 1960s when the book was adapted into a film starring Olivia Hussey.
The meaning behind the name Sharlayne is not as straightforward as other names, as it does not have a direct translation from another language. However, Frank Yerby has said that he created the name by combining elements of different words and names to represent his character's unique personality and heritage. The first part of the name, "Shar," is believed to be derived from the French word "char" meaning "dear" or "beloved," while the second part, "-layne," is thought to come from the English word "lane" meaning "path" or "way."
Despite its unconventional origin and lack of traditional meaning, Sharlayne has gained popularity in recent years as parents seek unique and meaningful names for their children. Its phonetic pronunciation (SHAR-layn) makes it easy to say and spell, while its distinctive sound sets it apart from more common names.
In literature and popular culture, Sharlayne is most famously associated with the character of Sharlayne "Shar"Baby in Frank Yerby's novel and subsequent film adaptation. The name has also been used in other works of fiction, such as in the video game "Final Fantasy XI," where it is a character's name.
Overall, Sharlayne is an intriguing and distinctive name with a fascinating backstory that continues to capture the imagination of parents looking for something unique for their children. Its American origins and lack of traditional meaning allow it to be interpreted in various ways, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a memorable name with personal significance.
The name Sharlayne gained popularity in the United States during the late 1950s, with a total of 6 babies being given this unique name in the year 1957 alone. This statistic highlights the distinctiveness of the name during that time period. However, it is important to note that while Sharlayne was given to several babies each year throughout the decades that followed, its popularity did not significantly increase or decrease over time. Instead, the name maintained a consistent presence among newborns in the United States, with an average of 6 births per year from 1957 onwards. This consistency can be attributed to the enduring appeal of unique and uncommon names such as Sharlayne, which parents often choose for their babies as a way to honor individuality and creativity.