What does Duncan mean and where does it come from?
Duncan is traditionally a male name of Scottish origin (Donnchadh) and means 'dark warrior.' However, in contemporary times, it has also been adopted as a feminine name. The name holds historical significance due to its association with several Scottish kings and historical figures. Although predomi
Cultural significance
Duncan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of dark warrior.
Peak popularity
Reached #1104 in 2024 — currently #1124 in the US.
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Related Reading
Scotland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Duncan?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Duncan?
Duncan works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Duncan Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Duncan John
One syllable · timeless choice
Duncan Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Duncan Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Duncan Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Duncan Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Duncan right now?
Declining — down 20 spots — currently #1124 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1124 | 190 | ▼ down 20 · -3% births |
| 2024 | #1104 | 195 | ▼ down 174 · -20% births |
| 2023 | #930 | 244 | ▼ down 12 · -3% births |
| 2022 | #918 | 252 | ▲ up 98 · +17% births |
| 2021 | #1016 | 216 | ▲ up 15400 · +4220% births |
| 2015 | #16416 | 5 | — |
The story of Duncan
Duncan is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1996. A total of 20,125 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #16416 in 2015 to #930 in 2023. Duncan is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Duncan in 2024:
Duncan by decade
Duncan peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 139 | |
| 1890s | 117 | |
| 1900s | 116 | |
| 1910s | 542 | |
| 1920s | 767 | |
| 1930s | 653 | |
| 1940s | 1,179 | |
| 1950s | 1,784 | |
| 1960s | 1,389 | |
| 1970s | 937 | |
| 1980s | 1,410 | |
| 1990s ★ | 4,226 | |
| 2000s | 3,964 | |
| 2010s | 2,686 | |
| 2020s | 601 | |
What are good nicknames for Duncan?
What names sound and feel like Duncan?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Duncan also consider these
How is Duncan written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Duncan
What does the name Duncan mean?
Duncan means "dark warrior" — a name rooted in Scotland 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 Duncan?
Duncan is currently ranked #930 as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Duncan have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Duncan?
Duncan originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland 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 Duncan?
Duncan is a two-syllable name pronounced DUHNGK-un. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Duncan trending right now?
Duncan is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.