Cillian is an Irish given name of Irish origin, derived from the Irish language word "Cillín". The name Cillian means "devoted to God" or "church", as it was originally associated with St. Cillian of Ireland, a saint who lived in the 7th century.
The name Cillian is believed to have originated from the ancient Irish clan, the Uí Chinnéide, who were known for their scholarly pursuits and religious devotion. The name has been popular among the Irish nobility throughout history and has also been used by notable figures such as Cillian Murphy, an Irish actor who gained international recognition for his role in the film "28 Days Later".
Cillian is a relatively uncommon given name outside of Ireland but has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique sound and cultural significance. It is often spelled as Cilian or Killian, especially in English-speaking countries outside of Ireland. Despite its variations in spelling, the name retains its Irish origin and meaning.
In summary, Cillian is an Irish given name with a rich history and meaningful origin. Its association with St. Cillian and the Uí Chinnéide clan gives it a sense of cultural significance and heritage that continues to be celebrated today.
"Cillian saw a significant rise in popularity from 2006 onwards, with births jumping from 42 to 340 between 2006 and 2021. The peak was reached in 2022 with 476 births."