Shelly
Girl name · 122 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Shelly: 122 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 11 births in 1980.
Shelly is most often a short form of Michelle, the feminine version of Michael, a Hebrew name meaning “who is like God?”—a rhetorical question affirming divine uniqueness. It can also derive from an English surname or place name, from Old English *scylf* (“shelf”) and *leah* (“clearing”), suggesting a sheltered meadow or a slope-side settlement. Notable bearers include three actresses: Shelly Winters, a two-time Oscar winner from the 1950s; Shelly Long, known for *Cheers*; and Shelley Duvall, star of *The Shining*. Though less common today, the name enjoyed mid-20th-century popularity, influenced partly by the
Girl 21 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 198011 babies
- Latest (2005)
- #6873 babies
- Total births
- 122since 1975
- 5-year trend
- ▼ 14%vs prior 5y