Flynn

“descendant of the red-haired one”

Ireland origin · Unisex name

♂ 93% boys♀ 7% girls

#782US 2023

323Births / yr

↓Falling

5.3kAll-time births

📅 Since 198600

How to pronounce Flynn

FLIN

/ˈflɪn/ · stress on FLIN · 1 syllable

“descendant of the red-haired one”

Ireland origin · Unisex name

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.

🌿

How else can you spell Flynn?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

Flinn

Spelling variant

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

How popular is Flynn right now?

Falling — down 68 spots — currently #782 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 2000–2023#782 · Top 0.58%

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

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	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Flynn

Best Year2021Rank #653

Peak Count418

Average Rank#5200

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range2000 - 20238 years

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:

Sophia Emma Olivia Isabella Ava

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?

Common

FlyFlyieFlyy

What names sound and feel like Flynn?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Flynn also consider these

Fynn

Ireland · Irish

Mlynn

American · Variant of Lynn,

Flinn

Ireland · From the surname

Dlynn

American · from the valley

Jlynn

American · Combination of 'J'

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.