Sheldon

boyOld English

Sheldon is an boy name of Old English origin, meaning “Steep-sided valley”.

MeaningSteep-sided valley
GenderBoy
OriginOld English
PronunciationSHEL-dun
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, Canada, United Kingdom

Meaning and origin of Sheldon

Sheldon comes from English place names; depending on the place, it is traced to Old English scylf, 'shelf' or 'ledge', with denu, 'valley', or dun, 'hill', so it is usually explained as 'steep valley' or 'flat-topped hill'. It became a surname and then a first name, and in mid-twentieth-century America it was especially popular among Jewish families. The TV character Sheldon Cooper made it familiar to a new generation.

Is Sheldon a religious name?

Sheldon is a secular English place name with no religious background.

How popular is Sheldon?

Uncommon for babies today.

Gifts with the name Sheldon

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Spellings and variants of Sheldon

SheltonShel

Names similar to Sheldon

ShermanShelbyWestonSeldon

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Sheldon mean?

Sheldon means 'Steep-sided valley'. It is of Old English origin.

Does Sheldon have a religious meaning?

Sheldon is a secular English place name with no religious background.

How do you pronounce Sheldon?

Sheldon is pronounced SHEL-dun.

Is Sheldon a boy or girl name?

Sheldon is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.