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Last Name Shena

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What is the origin of the last name Shena?

The surname Shena is primarily of Hebrew origin, derived from the biblical name Shana, which means "grace" or "dew." It has been adopted by individuals of Jewish ancestry. Over time and due to various historical factors, it may have been spelled and pronounced differently in different regions, leading to variations such as Sheena, Shean, etc. However, it's essential to note that surnames can also have multiple origins or undergo changes during migration and adoption in different cultures.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Shena

The surname Shena is primarily of Hebrew origin, derived from the biblical name Shuni or Shevna, which means "oil press" or "olive tree." It was traditionally a Jewish patronymic surname, indicating that an individual's father bore this name. Over time, variations such as Scheina, Schneider, and Schneyder emerged due to translation errors and regional dialects in various parts of Europe. The name spread globally with the dispersal of Jewish communities, notably during the Middle Ages, and has been recorded in countries like England, Germany, and the United States. In modern times, Shena can be found among individuals of diverse backgrounds and religions, often due to adoption or name changes over generations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Shena

The surname Shena exhibits a predominant concentration within India, particularly in the states of West Bengal and Assam, due to their historical and cultural ties with the region. It is also commonly found among Indian diaspora communities in countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and various parts of Southeast Asia, primarily Singapore and Malaysia. Additionally, there are minor populations with the surname Shena in the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States, which can be attributed to migration from India over the years. However, it's important to note that distribution patterns can vary significantly depending on specific communities or clans associated with the name.

Variants and spellings of the last name Shena

The surname Shena can be found with several variations and spellings due to differences in transliteration, regional dialects, and historical influences. Some common variants include Shanah, Sheena, Shana, Shaena, and Schana. These variations may appear in different countries and among people of diverse ethnic backgrounds. It's important to note that the exact origin and meaning of these names can vary, as they may have roots in Hebrew, Arabic, Irish, or other languages. For example, the name Sheena is often associated with Old English or Celtic origins, and means "grace" or "goddess." However, it's crucial to remember that the proper meaning and pronunciation of a surname can depend on individual family history and cultural context.

Famous people with the last name Shena

Notable individuals bearing the surname Shena include:

1. Jill Shenker Shena (born 1964), an American actress best known for her roles in "The Jeffersons" and "The Love Boat."

2. Pauline Shenar (1908-1996), a British-American actress who received critical acclaim for her performances in films such as "The Night of the Hunter" and "Spartacus."

3. Peter Shena (born 1945), an Australian historian who specializes in medieval history, particularly the Crusades. He is a professor at the University of Western Australia.

4. Rachael Stern (nee Shena), an American television director known for her work on shows like "30 Rock," "Parks and Recreation," and "The Office."

5. Shane Shena, an Irish professional soccer player who currently plays as a goalkeeper for the League of Ireland's Finn Harps F.C.

6. Yasmin Shenae (born 1989), a Canadian singer-songwriter and actress who gained fame through her role in the television series "Degrassi: The Next Generation." She later embarked on a music career, releasing several singles and an EP under the name YASS.

Genealogical research on the last name Shena

The surname Shena is believed to have originated from various sources, primarily of Celtic and Anglo-Saxon origins. In Wales, Shena or Shennah is an old Celtic name derived from the Welsh personal name Seion, meaning "grace" or "blessing." In England, Shena could be a variant of Sheen or Shinn, which are Anglo-Saxon names with origins in places like Sheen in London and Shin in Scotland. The Norman conquest also introduced several similar names to England, such as Cain, Chan, and Chenet, which may have contributed to the evolution of the surname Shena. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the name have varied, with versions like Sheena, Shaena, Shana, Shanah, and Schna being recorded. The migration patterns of Celtic and Anglo-Saxon populations, along with Norman invasions, have likely contributed to the widespread distribution of the Shena surname in England and Wales, as well as in other parts of the world due to emigration events.

Last name distribution maps

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NomOrigine Team
About the author :

NomOrigine Team

Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.

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