Shannen
Shannen Origin and Meaning
Shannen as a masculine name represents an interesting gender crossover, as it's more commonly recognized as a feminine name (famously borne by actress Shannen Doherty). The name derives from the Irish name Seanan, a diminutive of Sean, meaning 'God is gracious' or 'gift from God.' While traditionally used for girls in its current spelling, the masculine usage connects more directly to its Irish origins. The name features a melodic quality with its two syllables and soft ending. As a boy's name, Shannen remains quite rare, making it distinctive while still being familiar in sound. Parents choosing Shannen for a boy might appreciate its Irish heritage, its subtle religious connotation, or simply its pleasing phonetics, while embracing its gender-fluid quality in contemporary naming practices.