How Do You Spell SHEILA?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈiːlə] (IPA)

The spelling of the name Sheila can be a bit confusing for non-native English speakers. The correct pronunciation of Sheila is /SHēlə/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "ei" combination in the name is pronounced like "ee". This spelling might not make sense for those who are used to the "ai" combination being pronounced like "ay". However, this is just one of the quirks of English spelling that can sometimes be a challenge for language learners.

SHEILA Meaning and Definition

  1. Sheila is a feminine given name of Australian origin. It is derived from the Irish name Síle, which itself is a diminutive of the name Cecilia. As a popular name in Australia, Sheila is often associated with Australian slang and cultural references.

    From a slang perspective, "Sheila" is often used as a colloquial term for a woman or girl, specifically an Australian woman. The term gained prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and has since become a quintessential part of Australian English. It is used to refer to women in a casual, often affectionate or friendly manner.

    Beyond its slang usage, Sheila is also used as a proper noun or given name. As a person's name, Sheila usually refers to a female individual and is often chosen for its traditional and classic connotations. Sheila, as a name, portrays qualities such as elegance, grace, wisdom, and strength.

    In summary, "Sheila" can refer to a woman or girl, especially in a colloquial Australian context, or it can serve as a female given name with traditional and timeless associations. Overall, the name Sheila carries a certain charm and cultural significance, particularly within Australia, making it a distinct and recognizable identifier.

Top Common Misspellings for SHEILA *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for SHEILA

Etymology of SHEILA

The word "Sheila" is derived from an Australian slang term used to refer to a woman or girl. Its exact etymology is uncertain, but there are several theories about its origins.

One theory suggests that "Sheila" is derived from an Irish name "Sheelagh" or "Síle", which eventually transformed into the Australian slang term. Irish immigrants to Australia may have brought this name with them, leading to its wide use in the country.

Another theory suggests that "Sheila" could have originated from the word "shieling" in Scottish dialects. A "shieling" refers to a temporary dwelling or hut used by farmers in the summer months and could have been used metaphorically to refer to a woman — someone who is cherished, protected, or cared for.

Similar spelling words for SHEILA

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