Declan is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "declán," which means "full of good fortune." It is believed to have been brought to Ireland by Saint Declan, who was said to have lived in the fifth century and performed many miracles during his lifetime. The name gained popularity in Ireland due to his reputation for holiness and has since become a popular choice among Irish families.
In terms of its meaning, Declan signifies "full of good fortune" or "man of good fortune." This interpretation suggests that people named Declan are believed to be blessed with luck and prosperity throughout their lives. However, it is important to note that the name's significance can vary depending on cultural and personal interpretations.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures named Declan. One such figure was Saint Declan of Ardmore, who is considered one of Ireland's patron saints along with Patrick and Bridget. According to legend, he was born in County Limerick and later founded the monastery at Ardmore in County Waterford. His feast day is celebrated on July 24th.
In more recent times, Declan has been used as a given name for boys not only in Ireland but also in other parts of the world where Irish culture has had an influence. Today, it continues to be a popular choice among parents who wish to honor their Irish heritage or simply appreciate its unique sound and meaning. Overall, Declan is a strong and distinctive name that carries with it a rich history and cultural significance.
The name Declan saw a significant increase in popularity over the decades. Between 1951 and 1980, there were fewer than 20 births each year. However, starting from 1985, the number of births began to rise steadily, reaching triple digits by 1989. The peak popularity of Declan occurred in recent years, with over 3000 births recorded annually between 2011 and 2016. Even after a slight dip in popularity, there were still around 3500 births each year from 2017 to 2021, indicating that Declan remains a popular choice for parents today. In total, over the period from 1951 to 2023, there have been approximately 53,177 births with the name Declan.