Shane

boyIrishChristian

Shane is a Christian boy name of Irish origin, meaning “God is gracious”.

MeaningGod is gracious
GenderBoy
OriginIrish
PronunciationSHAYN
TraditionChristian, Modern & Classic
Used inIreland, United States, Australia, United Kingdom

Meaning and origin of Shane

Shane is an English spelling of Seán, the Irish form of John, which goes back through Norman French Jehan to the Hebrew Yochanan, 'God is gracious'. It spread outside Ireland in the mid-twentieth century, helped by the 1949 novel Shane and the 1953 Western film based on it. Well-known bearers include the Australian cricketer Shane Warne and the Irish singer Shane MacGowan.

Is Shane a Christian name?

Through its root in John, Shane connects to John the Baptist and the Apostle John, but in practice it is used as an everyday Irish and English name rather than a religious one.

How popular is Shane?

Most popular in English-speaking countries from the 1960s to 1980s; still familiar but less often chosen for babies now.

Gifts with the name Shane

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Spellings and variants of Shane

SeánShaunShawnSean

Names similar to Shane

More Christian boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Shane mean?

Shane means 'God is gracious'. It is of Irish origin.

Is Shane a Christian name?

Through its root in John, Shane connects to John the Baptist and the Apostle John, but in practice it is used as an everyday Irish and English name rather than a religious one.

How do you pronounce Shane?

Shane is pronounced SHAYN.

Is Shane a boy or girl name?

Shane is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.