Gilligan
“little servant — from Gilla”
Irish origin · Unisex name
#12671US 2025
5Births / yr
↓Falling
5All-time births
What does Gilligan mean and where does it come from?
Gilligan is derived from the Irish surname 'Gilla' meaning 'servant' combined with the diminutive suffix '-gan'.
Cultural significance
The name is often associated with Irish heritage and has been popularized in modern culture through media, notably in television.
Peak popularity
Reached #1870 in 2015 — currently #12671 in the US.
How else can you spell Gilligan?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Gilligan?
Gilligan works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Gilligan Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Gilligan John
One syllable · timeless choice
Gilligan Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Gilligan Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Gilligan Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Gilligan Beau
One syllable · on the rise
How popular is Gilligan right now?
Falling — down 10801 spots — currently #12671 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
Gilligan is exceptionally rare — it does not appear in US Social Security records, meaning fewer than 5 babies per year have received this name.
What are good nicknames for Gilligan?
Common
GilGiIgan
What names sound and feel like Gilligan?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Gilligan also consider these
Common questions about the name Gilligan
What does the name Gilligan mean?
Gilligan means "little servant — from Gilla" — a name rooted in Irish 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 Gilligan?
Gilligan is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Gilligan?
Gilligan originates from Irish tradition. Irish names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
What sibling names go well with Gilligan?
Gilligan pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Hebrew heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Is Gilligan more of a girl or boy name?
Gilligan is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
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