Skip to main content
Back to all names
UnisexChinese#9704falling

Shan

shahn

Shan is a unisex name of Chinese origin, meaning “Can be a short form of Shannon (Irish river name) or a Chinese surname. In Chinese, 'Shan' can mean 'mountain,' 'good,' or 'kind'.”. It currently ranks #9704 in the US, and peaked in popularity in 1970.

Letters4
Syllables1
OriginChinese

What Shan Means

Can be a short form of Shannon (Irish river name) or a Chinese surname. In Chinese, 'Shan' can mean 'mountain,' 'good,' or 'kind'.

The Story of Shan

A name that can mean 'mountain' or 'kindness,' this strong yet gentle choice has journeyed from ancient China to you.

Shan is a name with rich, layered origins. In Chinese, it can be written with characters meaning 'mountain' (山), symbolizing strength and steadfastness, or 'good' and 'kind' (善), signifying benevolence. It also appears as a short form of the Irish river name Shannon, implying flow and abundance. This name’s diverse roots connect it to both the grounded strength of nature and the gentle virtue of compassion.

When you speak the name 'Shan,' you might feel the grounding presence of a mountain or the warmth of a kind gesture. This is a name that holds a powerful duality for your child, capable of both resilience and deep empathy. Imagine your child’s name called out, a blend of strength and generosity, resonating with the wisdom of ancient lands.

AI Features

Unlock Shan’s Full Story

AI consultant · Sibling matches · Cultural deep-dive · Compatibility scores

🔒 No credit card needed

Gender Split

Numerology

5

The Adventurer

Free-spirited, adaptable, and curious. These names carry energy of change and exploration.

Famous Namesakes

  • Shan Cai

    Fictional character from Meteor Garden

Personality Traits

StrongIndependentKindCompassionateResilient

Peak Year

#105 in 1970

Total Births

3,088

First Recorded

1944

More Names Like Shan

View all

Explore related name groups

Save Shan to your favorites list