Shinead
Shinead Origin and Meaning
Shinead is an anglicized spelling variation of the Irish name Sinéad (pronounced shi-NAYD). The traditional Sinéad is the Irish form of Jane or Janet, ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious.' Shinead emerged as an alternative spelling that helps English speakers approximate the correct pronunciation without using the accent mark found in Sinéad. The name gained international recognition largely due to Irish singer-songwriter Sinéad O'Connor in the late 1980s and 1990s. While less common than the traditional spelling, Shinead offers a connection to Irish heritage while being potentially more intuitive for non-Irish speakers to pronounce. The name carries a blend of traditional Celtic roots with a contemporary feel, making it appealing to parents seeking a name that's distinctive yet has authentic cultural ties.