Keighan is a modern and unique given name of Irish origin, derived from the Irish surname Ó Catháin, which translates to "descendant of Cathán." The name Cathán itself means "warm, gentle," suggesting a historical association with positive attributes. Keighan gained popularity as a first name in English-speaking countries during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It is often associated with individuals born during this time period but remains less common than many other names, contributing to its distinctive character. The name Keighan consists of three syllables: KEY-gan, which can be pronounced differently based on personal preference or regional accent. There are no widely recognized variant spellings or diminutives for Keighan, although some people may choose to use variations like Keaghan or Keeghan. The name does not have a specific gender association and is typically considered unisex, though it is more commonly given to boys in recent years. Keighan has not yet appeared in popular culture to the extent that many other names have, allowing those who bear this name to forge their own identities and associations with it.
Keighan is a rare name with a fluctuating popularity over the years, having seen its highest point recently with seven births each in 2017 and 2018.