Kieran is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Irish given name Ciarán. It is composed of two elements: "ciar" meaning dark or black, and "án" which means little. Therefore, Kieran can be translated to mean "little dark one."
The name Kieran has a rich history in Ireland. Saint Kieran of Saighir was a 6th-century Irish abbot who is said to have performed many miracles during his life. He founded the monastery at Saighir, which later became an important center for learning and spirituality.
In addition to its historical significance, the name Kieran has also gained popularity in recent years as a unisex given name. It has been used by celebrities such as actor Kieran Culkin and musician Kieran Hebden, further popularizing the name in modern culture.
Overall, Kieran is a unique and meaningful Irish name with a rich history behind it. Its dark and mysterious meaning adds to its allure, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.
"Kieran's popularity as a baby name started low but grew significantly over time. From just 5 births in some years between the 1920s to 1940s, it surged to over 600 births annually from the late 1980s onwards, reaching a peak of 634 births in 2023."