Shantae

Meaning of Shantae

Shantae, a feminine given name pronounced shahn-TAY (/ʃɑntˈe/), is etymologically linked to the Sanskrit śānta, meaning ‘peaceful’ or ‘calm’, and reflects an intersection of ancient linguistic heritage with modern Anglo-American naming innovation. Its emergence within African-American communities in the late twentieth century illustrates a deliberate orthographic elaboration of the classical root, yielding a bisyllabic structure whose rhythmic cadence aligns with prevailing trends in American onomastics. Although it has never ascended beyond the lower tiers of popularity, Pennsylvania vital‐statistics records from 1983 to 1992 document its steady albeit modest annual presence—five to eight occurrences, consistently ranking near the two‐hundredth position—thereby underscoring its rarity. This statistical marginality, far from diminishing its appeal, instead conveys an aura of individuality and linguistic depth, qualities that may resonate with parents seeking a name of both serene connotation and distinct identity within the broader tapestry of modern American names.