Kavan

“handsome”

Irish origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#9348US 2023

8Births / yr

↓Falling

832All-time births

📅 Since 196800

What does Kavan mean and where does it come from?

Kavan is derived from the Gaelic name 'Caomhán', which translates to 'handsome' or 'gentle'. While the name has Irish roots, it has gained traction in English-speaking countries, especially in the United States since the late 20th century. Variants include Cavan and Kavanagh. The name is associated

Cultural significance

Kavan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Irish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of handsome.

Peak popularity

Reached #2658 in 1995 — currently #9348 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Kavan?

Kavan works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Kavan Grace

How popular is Kavan right now?

Falling — down 698 spots — currently #9348 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1975–2023#9348 · Top 6.9%

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#9348	8	▼ down 698 · -11% births
2022	#8650	9	▼ down 2466 · -36% births
2021	#6184	14	▼ down 712 · -12% births
2020	#5472	16	▼ down 706 · -20% births
2015	#4766	20	▼ down 1506 · -41% births
2010	#3260	34	▼ down 586 · -17% births
2005	#2674	41	▲ up 360 · +41% births
2000	#3034	29	▼ down 376 · +4% births
1995	#2658	28	▲ up 2164 · +155% births
1990	#4822	11	▲ up 2190 · +120% births
1985	#7012	5	▼ down 241
1980	#6771	5	▼ down 823
1975	#5948	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Kavan

Best Year1995Rank #2658

Peak Count41

Average Rank#5431

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1975 - 202313 years

The story of Kavan

Kavan is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1968. With 832 total births recorded, Kavan remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5948 in 1975, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #9348 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Kavan in 1995:

Michael Matthew Christopher Jacob Joshua

Kavan by decade

Kavan peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →

Decade	Births
1960s	12
1970s	15
1980s	57
1990s	189
2000s ★	323
2010s	220
2020s	16

💎Kavan has only 832 total recorded births since 1968 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Kavan?

Common

KavKavieKavy

Famous people named Kavan

Kavan (Irish saint)

Kavan helped spread this name across Ireland and Scotland through the early Christian monastic movement.

Kavan (Celtic chieftain)

Kavan bore this name in ancient Ireland, where it connected to the Gaelic oral tradition.

Kavan (Irish poet or writer)

Kavan used this name in the rich tradition of Irish literature and storytelling.

Kavan (Irish revolutionary)

Kavan carried this name during Ireland's struggle for independence, giving it a spirit of courage.

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Celebrity Names

What celebrities named their babies in 2025

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What names sound and feel like Kavan?

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

Davan

Irish · Irish

Kayvan

Persia (Iran) · the one who

Common questions about the name Kavan

What does the name Kavan mean?

Kavan means "handsome" — 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 Kavan?

Kavan is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy 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 Kavan?

Kavan 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.

Is Kavan a common or rare name?

Kavan is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.

What are good nicknames for Kavan?

Kavan naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.