Cheyenne

/shy-AN/

Native American (Algonquian)

Cheyenne is a Native American (Algonquian) baby name pronounced /shy-AN/. The name refers to the Cheyenne people, derived from a Lakota word meaning 'speakers of a foreign language'.

Meaning of Cheyenne

The name refers to the Cheyenne people, derived from a Lakota word meaning 'speakers of a foreign language'.

It originates from the Lakota word 'Šahíyena', which is a diminutive of 'Šahíya'. While the literal translation often relates to 'red-talkers' or those speaking an unintelligible language, it serves as the endonym for one of the most prominent Great Plains indigenous nations. The name entered the American lexicon as a place name and eventually a given name in the mid-20th century.

Origin
Native American (Algonquian)
Pronunciation
/shy-AN/

Cultural background

While historically used for both genders, it became significantly more popular for girls in the United States during the 1990s and is frequently associated with the American West.

Variations & nicknames

  • Cheyanne
  • Shyanne
  • Chey
  • Chyene
  • Sheyenne

Famous people named Cheyenne

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Cheyenne Jackson

    American actor and singer known for Broadway and television roles.

    Film and Theater · 21st Century

  • Cheyenne Brando

    French fashion model and daughter of actor Marlon Brando.

    Fashion · Late 20th Century

  • Cheyenne Kimball

    American singer-songwriter and guitarist.

    Music · 2000s

  • Cheyenne Woods

    American professional golfer and niece of Tiger Woods.

    Sport · 21st Century

  • Cheyenne Silver

    American actress and model.

    Entertainment · Late 20th Century

Frequently asked about Cheyenne

Is Cheyenne a girl's or boy's name?
It is a unisex name, though in recent decades it has been much more commonly given to girls in North America.
What is the nickname for Cheyenne?
The most common nicknames are Chey (pronounced 'Shy') and Annie.
Is Cheyenne a French name?
No, while it may sound French, it is of Native American origin, specifically from the Siouan/Lakota language describing an Algonquian tribe.
When did the name Cheyenne become popular?
The name saw a significant rise in popularity in the United States starting in the 1950s due to Western television shows, peaking in the 1990s.

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