Deegan is a name of Irish origin and it means "little fern". It is believed to have been derived from the Irish surname Ó Dúbhthaigh, which was anglicized to Deegan. The surname is thought to have originated from the Gaelic word "dubthach", meaning dark or black-haired. Over time, the name has been adopted as a given name for boys and girls alike.
The first recorded instance of the name Deegan appears in Ireland in the mid-16th century. It was likely brought over by Irish immigrants who settled in other parts of the world, such as England and America. Today, Deegan is still most commonly found in Ireland, but it has also gained popularity in other English-speaking countries.
Despite its relatively recent use as a given name, Deegan has a long history as a surname. It is believed to have been carried by a prominent family from County Galway, who were known for their musical talents and were said to be descended from the ancient Irish bardic family of the O'Dubhthaighs.
Overall, Deegan is a unique and interesting name with a rich history behind it. Its meaning, "little fern", gives it a connection to nature and the outdoors, while its Irish origins give it a sense of cultural heritage. Whether used as a given name or surname, Deegan is sure to stand out and make an impression.
"The name Deegan experienced a significant rise in popularity between 1997 and 2008, with the number of annual births peaking at 230 in 2010. Since then, it has shown a steady decline, reaching 98 births in 2023."