The name Nolan, of Irish origin, is derived from the ancient Gaelic 'Nollaigh,' which means 'champion.' It was traditionally given to boys born around Christmas time, as Nollaigh is also the Irish form of the Latin 'Natali,' meaning 'birthday' (of Jesus). However, today, Nolan is used year-round and has gained significant popularity in English-speaking countries. It is often shortened to 'Noll' or 'Noli,' though it can also be spelled 'Nolan.' The name has been popularized by figures such as director Christopher Nolan and basketball player Enes Kanter, further adding to its contemporary appeal.
The name Nolan has seen fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a significant increase since the late 1990s. The peak years for births named Nolan were 2017 and 2019, with 28 and 36 births respectively.