Skip Ancestry main menuMain MenuAncestry
HomeTreesSearchDNAHelpExtras
Sign In
Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
  • 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
  • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
  • Privacy
  • Cookies
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
Group of people

Meaning of the first name Shiva

Origin

Persian

Meaning

Charming, Eloquent

Variations

Shivaji, Shivani, Sheva
The name Shiva, which traces its roots to ancient Persian origins, carries significant meaning and significance. Its etymology suggests that it signifies qualities such as charm and eloquence. Throughout history, the name Shiva has been interwoven into various cultures and languages, attesting to its enduring relevance.

In ancient Persian mythology, Shiva was known as one of the principal deities, representing numerous aspects of existence such as creation, destruction, and regeneration. Over time, the name Shiva extended its influence beyond Persia, finding its way into Hinduism, where it holds great prominence as one of the principal gods. In Hinduism, Shiva is revered as the supreme deity, embodying characteristics like cosmic balance, spiritual enlightenment, and transcendence. Rich with symbolism and metaphysical undertones, the name Shiva continues to have a profound presence in religious and spiritual practices of modern-day India.

Beyond its religious connotations, the name Shiva has permeated into contemporary usage, transcending cultural boundaries. In regions such as the Middle East and Central Asia, Shiva remains a popular given name for both males and females, encompassing the inherent qualities of charisma and eloquence. It has found its way into literature, poetry, and even popular culture. Furthermore, in recent decades, the name Shiva has gained increasing popularity in the Western world, reflecting a growing appreciation and fascination with diverse cultures and their unique naming traditions.

The name Shiva, with its origins in Persian and its subsequent iterations in various cultures, continues to exert its influence both historically and in modern times, carrying connotations of charm, eloquence, and spiritual embodiment.

Based on our records...

Kushner

Kushner

This is the most common surname associated with Shiva.
Brian

Brian

This is the most common name of those married to a Shiva.
Ida

Ida

This is the most common name for a child of a Shiva.

What are you curious about?

Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
Start a free trial
Order AncestryDNA
calendar.webp
Based on our records...

Did you know?

1890 is when there were the most people born with the first name Shiva.

Explore the origins of another name.