What does Kegan mean and where does it come from?
Kegan is primarily a male name in Ireland but has gained acceptance as a female name in the United States. The name is connected to Gaelic roots and has historical connotations of strength and warmth due to its meaning. The variations of the name include Kegan and Keegan, with similar rain and creat
Cultural significance
Kegan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of irish.
Peak popularity
Reached #5489 in 1987 — currently #997 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kegan?
Kegan works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kegan Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kegan Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kegan Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kegan Claire
French influence · crisp
Kegan Jane
Literary · strong
Kegan Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kegan right now?
Holding steady — currently #997 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #997 | 1,203 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1002 | 1,183 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1007 | 1,153 | ▲ up 11080 · +14313% births |
| 2015 | #12087 | 8 | ▲ up 3288 · +33% births |
| 2010 | #15375 | 6 | ▼ down 4315 · -25% births |
| 2000 | #11060 | 8 | ▼ down 3297 · -27% births |
| 1995 | #7763 | 11 | ▼ down 172 |
| 1990 | #7591 | 11 | — |
The story of Kegan
Kegan is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1982. With 3,984 total births recorded, Kegan remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7591 in 1990 to #997 in 2023. Kegan is used for both genders: 6% female and 94% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kegan in 1987:
Kegan by decade
Kegan peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 40 | |
| 1980s | 483 | |
| 1990s ★ | 1,458 | |
| 2000s | 1,256 | |
| 2010s | 715 | |
| 2020s | 32 | |
💎With 3,984 total births, Kegan is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kegan?
What names sound and feel like Kegan?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kegan also consider these
How is Kegan written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Kegan
What does the name Kegan mean?
Kegan means "Irish" — 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 Kegan?
Kegan is currently ranked #997 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 Kegan?
Kegan 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 Kegan?
Kegan is a two-syllable name pronounced K EH1 G AE1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kegan a common or rare name?
Kegan is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.