US Popularity Rank: 11716

Origin: Irish

Meaning: Descendant of Seanach; Old, ancient; Possessor of wisdom

Shann is a boy’s name of Irish origin. It may be a shortened form of multiple Irish surnames, including Shanahan, the anglicized version of Ó Seanacháin. This name means “descendant of Seanach,” with Seanach itself meaning “old,” and “ancient.” It may also be a shortened form of Shannon, a surname and first name derived from the River Shannon, which was named after the goddess Sionann. Sionann’s name means “possessor of wisdom.” Alternatively, Shann may simply derive from the Irish word sean, meaning “old.” Whichever origin you prefer, this name’s connotations of old age and wisdom foretell a long life and lots of intelligence for baby!