Shelagh is a unique and elegant female given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic word "Síle," which means "sheilan" or "raven." The name Shelagh is often associated with the Irish goddess of war, the Morrigan, who was said to take the form of a raven.
The name Shelagh gained popularity during the Celtic Revival of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when there was a renewed interest in Irish culture and tradition. It has since been used by families with Irish ancestry or those who simply appreciate its distinctiveness and beauty.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Shelagh. One example is Shelagh Delaney, an English playwright known for her controversial play "A Taste of Honey," which was first performed in 1958.
In summary, Shelagh is a captivating Irish given name with a rich historical background and an intriguing meaning. Its association with the powerful goddess Morrigan adds to its mystique and allure. Despite its rarity compared to more common names, Shelagh remains a beloved choice among those seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughter.
The name Shelagh has seen a varied trend of popularity over the years in the United States. The highest number of births registered with this name occurred in the year 1950, with an impressive total of 22 births. This peak was followed by several years with consistent numbers ranging between 15 to 20 births annually from 1962 to 1969.
However, the popularity of Shelagh began to decline gradually after the late sixties. By the year 1970, there were only 8 births registered, which continued to fluctuate between 5 and 13 births per year until the mid-eighties. This trend of low popularity persisted throughout most of the nineties as well, with an average of around 5 to 7 births annually.
Despite these fluctuations in popularity over the years, it is important to note that Shelagh remains a unique and distinctive name. It has been given to a total of 510 individuals in the United States alone, making it quite recognizable without being overly common. This demonstrates that while trends may come and go, some names maintain their individuality and timelessness.