Sheila

girlIrishChristian

Sheila is a Christian girl name of Irish, from Latin origin, meaning “From Cecilia; 'blind'”.

MeaningFrom Cecilia; 'blind'
GenderGirl
OriginIrish, from Latin
PronunciationSHEE-luh
TraditionChristian
Used inIreland, United Kingdom, United States

Meaning and origin of Sheila

Sheila is the English spelling of the Irish Síle, a form of Cecilia brought to Ireland by the Normans. Cecilia comes from the Roman family name Caecilius, from caecus, 'blind'. Saint Cecilia, a Roman martyr, is the patron saint of music. In Australian slang 'sheila' came to mean any young woman, which made the name less popular there.

Is Sheila a Christian name?

Sheila is an Irish Catholic name derived from Saint Cecilia, patron of music. The meaning 'heavenly' sometimes given is not accurate.

How popular is Sheila?

Popular in the mid-twentieth century; uncommon today.

Gifts with the name Sheila

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Spellings and variants of Sheila

SíleSheelaghShelaghCecilia

Names similar to Sheila

More Christian girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Sheila mean?

Sheila means 'From Cecilia; 'blind''. It is of Irish, from Latin origin.

Is Sheila a Christian name?

Sheila is an Irish Catholic name derived from Saint Cecilia, patron of music. The meaning 'heavenly' sometimes given is not accurate.

How do you pronounce Sheila?

Sheila is pronounced SHEE-luh.

Is Sheila a boy or girl name?

Sheila is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.