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Sham

Girl name · 9 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Sham: 9 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 3 births in 2017.

Sham is a name with multiple possible origins, most relevantly from the Arabic word *shams* meaning “sun,” or as a shortened form of Shamus, the Irish and Scottish Gaelic version of James. In Scotland, where the name has appeared in birth records since the late 20th century, it’s often chosen for its simplicity and cross-cultural appeal. The name also echoes the ancient Arabic name for Damascus, known as “ash-Sham,” but this is a place connection through shared etymology rather than a person. As a variant, Sham shares roots with the more common Shamus and can be considered a modern, streamlined alternative. Its sunny meaning and international character make it a distinctive, warm choice for parents seeking something short yet meaningful.