Unpacking the Name Shawnda

Shawnda is primarily an American given name, a variation of Shawn, which itself derives from John. The addition of the ‘-da’ suffix creates a distinctive and somewhat more modern feel compared to its root. It gained some popularity in the late 20th century but has seen less widespread use in recent years.

Pronunciation Guide

IPA: /ˈʃaʊndə/

Phonetic: SHOW-n-dah

Gender Identity

female

Diminutives & Variations

Notable People Named Shawnda

  • Shawnda Devine — American actress

Cultural & Religious Context

As a variation of Shawn, Shawnda carries the same Christian roots. John is a significant name in Christianity, referring to John the Baptist and the Apostle John. Therefore, Shawnda indirectly connects to these important figures.

Geographic Distribution

Shawnda is primarily found in the United States. Its usage was more prevalent in the late 20th century but has become less common in recent decades. It remains recognizable within American communities.

Names with Similar Roots

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Shawnda a biblical name?

Indirectly, yes. It derives from Shawn, which is a form of John, a significant figure in the Bible.

What does Shawnda mean?

It’s generally understood to mean ‘God is gracious,’ stemming from its origin as a variant of Shawn.