Shifra is a unique and distinctive name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the root verb "shafar," which means "to break open" or "to scatter." The name Shifra therefore carries connotations of liberation, scattering, or even destruction.
In Jewish tradition, Shifra is one of the two midwives mentioned in the Book of Exodus (Shifra and Puah). These midwives were instructed by Pharaoh to kill all newborn Hebrew boys, but they defied his orders and allowed the baby boys to live. When questioned about this disobedience, Shifra and Puah told Pharaoh that the Hebrew women gave birth before they arrived, so there was no need for them to intervene.
The name Shifra has been used in Jewish communities throughout history, but it is not as common as many other Hebrew names. This makes it a unique choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their child. The name Shifra can also be spelled in different ways, including "Sifra," "Shiphrah," or "Shiphrah."
Overall, the name Shifra is a powerful and significant choice, carrying with it a rich history and profound meaning. It is a name that honors Jewish tradition while also offering a unique and distinctive identity for those who bear it.
The name Shifra has been given to a total of 1600 babies in the United States since 1930, with fluctuations in popularity over time.
In the early years, from 1930 to 1954, there were relatively few births each year, ranging from just 5 to 10. However, starting in the mid-1960s, the number of babies named Shifra began to increase significantly. Between 1967 and 1982, there were consistently more than 10 births per year, with a peak of 32 births in 1980.
The trend continued into the 1990s and early 2000s, with yearly births ranging from 15 to 42. The highest number of Shifras was born in 2004, with 42 babies sharing the name that year.
Since then, the popularity of the name has fluctuated somewhat but has remained relatively consistent. Between 2010 and 2023, there have been between 31 and 58 births per year for each of the years listed in your data set.
Overall, while the name Shifra may not be among the most popular choices in the United States, it has consistently seen several births each year since the 1960s.