What does Flynn mean and where does it come from?
Flynn is an Anglicized version of the Gaelic surname 'Ó Floinn', which means 'descendant of Flann'. Flann is a name derived from the Old Irish word 'flann', meaning 'red' or 'ruddy'. The name Flynn has been used as a given name in modern times and has gained popularity in the United States, especial
Cultural significance
Flynn has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of descendant of the red-haired one.
Peak popularity
Reached #4537 in 2013 — currently #782 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Flynn?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Flynn?
Flynn works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Flynn Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Flynn Rose
Floral · soft ending
Flynn Mae
Sweet · timeless
Flynn Claire
French influence · crisp
Flynn Jane
Literary · strong
Flynn Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Flynn right now?
Falling — down 68 spots — currently #782 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #782 | 323 | ▼ down 68 · -12% births |
| 2022 | #714 | 369 | ▼ down 61 · -12% births |
| 2021 | #653 | 418 | ▲ up 7722 · +3383% births |
| 2020 | #8375 | 12 | ▼ down 2328 · -43% births |
| 2015 | #6047 | 21 | ▲ up 1866 · +40% births |
| 2010 | #7913 | 15 | ▼ down 736 · -6% births |
| 2005 | #7177 | 16 | ▲ up 2759 · +78% births |
| 2000 | #9936 | 9 | — |
The story of Flynn
Flynn is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1986. With 5,291 total births recorded, Flynn remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9936 in 2000 to #782 in 2023. Flynn is used for both genders: 7% female and 93% male.
Names that peaked alongside Flynn in 2013:
Flynn by decade
Flynn peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 36 | |
| 1920s | 16 | |
| 1930s | 28 | |
| 1940s | 60 | |
| 1950s | 96 | |
| 1960s | 137 | |
| 1970s | 116 | |
| 1980s | 152 | |
| 1990s | 229 | |
| 2000s | 748 | |
| 2010s ★ | 3,267 | |
| 2020s | 406 | |
💎With 5,291 total births, Flynn is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Flynn?
What names sound and feel like Flynn?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Flynn also consider these
Common questions about the name Flynn
What does the name Flynn mean?
Flynn means "descendant of the red-haired one" — 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 Flynn?
Flynn is currently ranked #782 as a baby 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 Flynn?
Flynn 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 Flynn?
Flynn is a one-syllable name pronounced F L IH1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Flynn sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Flynn flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Flynn ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.