Connor is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "Conchobhar," which means "hound or strong-willed warrior." The name has been popular in Ireland for centuries and was borne by several high kings of Connacht, one of the four provinces of Ireland.
The most famous bearer of the name Connor is likely Saint Conan, a 6th-century Irish abbot who founded a monastery on the island of Innisfallen in County Kerry. According to legend, Saint Conan was known for his holiness and miracles, and he became revered as a saint after his death.
In literature, the name Connor has been used by several notable authors, including American writer Stephen King, who named one of the main characters in his 1986 horror novel "It" after the name. Additionally, British author J.K. Rowling included a character named Connor in her popular Harry Potter series.
Today, Connor is a popular given name for boys both in Ireland and around the world. It has consistently ranked among the top names for boys in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Despite its popularity, however, the name remains strongly associated with Irish culture and heritage.
"The name Connor has seen significant fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a notable rise from the late 70s to the mid-90s, peaking in 1993 and 1994 with over 6000 births each year. However, it has since declined steadily, reaching a low of around 2855 births in 2023."