What does Cavan mean and where does it come from?
Cavan is of Irish origin, derived from the name of a county in Ireland. The name has historical roots dating back to the Gaelic word 'cabhán', meaning 'hollow' or 'places of caves'. It has been used as a first name since the 20th century and is considered a more modern choice in the United States, a
Cultural significance
Cavan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the irish locality.
Peak popularity
Reached #1785 in 2002 — currently #3456 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Cavan?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Cavan?
Cavan works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cavan Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Cavan John
One syllable · timeless choice
Cavan Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Cavan Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Cavan Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Cavan Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Cavan right now?
Rising fast — up 763 spots — currently #3456 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #3456 | 33 | ▲ up 763 · +32% births |
| 2024 | #4219 | 25 | ▼ down 497 · -17% births |
| 2023 | #3722 | 30 | ▲ up 176 · +7% births |
| 2022 | #3898 | 28 | ▼ down 465 · -15% births |
| 2021 | #3433 | 33 | ▲ up 297 · +18% births |
| 2020 | #3730 | 28 | ▼ down 948 · -35% births |
| 2015 | #2782 | 43 | ▼ down 395 · -19% births |
| 2010 | #2387 | 53 | ▼ down 564 · -25% births |
| 2005 | #1823 | 71 | ▲ up 873 · +109% births |
| 2000 | #2696 | 34 | ▲ up 1692 · +143% births |
| 1995 | #4388 | 14 | ▼ down 1372 · -33% births |
| 1990 | #3016 | 21 | ▲ up 529 · +62% births |
| 1985 | #3545 | 13 | ▲ up 807 · +44% births |
| 1980 | #4352 | 9 | ▼ down 158 · +13% births |
| 1975 | #4194 | 8 | — |
The story of Cavan
Cavan is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1969. With 1,565 total births recorded, Cavan remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4182 in 1970 to #3722 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Cavan in 2002:
Cavan by decade
Cavan peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 8 | |
| 1970s | 77 | |
| 1980s | 155 | |
| 1990s | 240 | |
| 2000s ★ | 585 | |
| 2010s | 472 | |
| 2020s | 86 | |
💎With 1,565 total births, Cavan is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Cavan?
What names sound and feel like Cavan?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cavan also consider these
Common questions about the name Cavan
What does the name Cavan mean?
Cavan means "from the Irish locality" — a name rooted in Ireland tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Cavan?
Cavan is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Cavan?
Cavan originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Cavan?
Cavan is a two-syllable name pronounced KAY-vun. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Cavan a common or rare name?
Cavan is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.