Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Shays

      Origin 
      English, Irish

      Meaning 
      Derived from the Surname Shay, Meaning Admirable

      Variations 
      Shasa, Shaya, Shaye

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Shays is derived from the surname Shay, which has roots in English and Irish origins. The meaning of Shay is “admirable,” connoting qualities of respectability and esteem. As a first name, Shays carries this positive connotation, often evoking a sense of charm and distinguished character.

      Historically, the surname Shay can be traced back to ancient times in England and Ireland. It has appeared in various records throughout the centuries, often associated with individuals known for their virtuous attributes or significant contributions to society. The name gained prominence particularly in the 18th century, aligning with notable events such as Shays' Rebellion (1786-1787), a pivotal uprising in Massachusetts that challenged economic injustices post-Revolution. This historical reference further solidified the name’s presence in American consciousness.

      In contemporary usage, Shays serves as both a first name and a surname, although it remains relatively less common as a first name. Today, it is appreciated for its unique sound and positive meaning. Individuals named Shays may be celebrated in various fields, including the arts, business, and sports, where their names are often associated with admiration and accomplishment. The name continues to evoke a sense of personal excellence and is embraced by those seeking distinctive yet meaningful names.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Shays.
      Taylor

      is the most common surname for Shays.

      John

      is the most common spouse name for Shays.

      Flora

      is the most common child name for Shays.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1721 is when there were the most people born with the first name Shays.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.