“girl, young woman” — Symbolizes youth and femininity
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls
#678US 2023
1.5kBirths / yr
→Stable
162.7kAll-time births
📅 Since 1901🏆 5 years in top 1000.23% of births at peak
How to pronounce Colleen
kah·LEEN
/ˌkɑ.ˈliːn/ · stress on LEEN · 2 syllables
“girl, young woman”
Symbolizes youth and femininity · American origin
What does Colleen mean and where does it come from?
Colleen is of Irish origin, derived from the Irish word 'cailín,' which means 'girl.' It gained popularity in the United States during the 20th century, especially among Irish-American communities. The name is often used affectionately and symbolizes youth and femininity. Colleen is also a common na
Cultural significance
Colleen has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of girl, young woman.
Holding steady — currently #678 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1905–2023#678 · Top 0.50%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#678
1,522
▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022
#683
1,502
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021
#688
1,472
▲ up 1950 · +2237% births
2020
#2638
63
▼ down 827 · -45% births
2015
#1811
115
▼ down 613 · -43% births
2010
#1198
202
▼ down 423 · -41% births
2005
#775
340
▼ down 320 · -44% births
2000
#455
609
▼ down 231 · -52% births
1995
#224
1,256
▼ down 64 · -31% births
1990
#160
1,808
▼ down 10 · -7% births
1985
#150
1,952
▼ down 13 · -8% births
1980
#137
2,125
▼ down 4 · +1% births
1975
#133
2,100
▼ down 17 · -37% births
1970
#116
3,328
▼ down 23 · -17% births
1965
#93
4,029
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Colleen
1965Rank #93
4,449
#608
↘Falling
1905 - 202327 years
The story of Colleen
Colleen entered American naming records in 1901 and has been in use for over 123 years. Its peak popularity was #93 in 1965. More than 162,748 babies have been named Colleen since 1901. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1892 in 1905 to #678 in 2023. Colleen is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Colleen means "girl, young woman" — a name rooted in American 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 Colleen?
Colleen is currently ranked #678 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Colleen?
Colleen originates from American tradition. American 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 Colleen?
Colleen is a two-syllable name pronounced K AA2 L IY1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Colleen more of a girl or boy name?
Colleen is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Colleen
For a sister
Colleen & Summer♡
Colleen & Jesse♡
Colleen & Brandon♡
Colleen & Bryan♡
For a brother
Colleen & Wesley♡
Colleen & Summer♡
Colleen & Jason♡
Colleen & Kevin♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#678
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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