What does Keiran mean and where does it come from?
Keiran is a variation of the name Ciarán, which is an Irish name derived from 'ciar' meaning 'dark.' Traditionally, it was a male name but has been adopted as a female name in recent times. The transition to being more unisex reflects changing naming trends. Historically, it is associated with St. C
Cultural significance
Keiran has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of irish.
Peak popularity
Reached #7275 in 2007 — currently #1318 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Keiran?
Keiran works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Keiran Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Keiran Rose
Floral · soft ending
Keiran Mae
Sweet · timeless
Keiran Claire
French influence · crisp
Keiran Jane
Literary · strong
Keiran Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Keiran right now?
Holding steady — currently #1318 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1318 | 882 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1323 | 862 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1328 | 832 | ▲ up 12188 · +11786% births |
| 2015 | #13516 | 7 | ▲ up 4379 · +40% births |
| 2010 | #17895 | 5 | ▼ down 5521 · -37% births |
| 2005 | #12374 | 8 | — |
The story of Keiran
Keiran is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1998. With 1,090 total births recorded, Keiran remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #12374 in 2005 to #1318 in 2023. Keiran is used for both genders: 13% female and 87% male.
Names that peaked alongside Keiran in 2007:
Keiran by decade
Keiran peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1980s | 5 | |
| 1990s | 145 | |
| 2000s | 441 | |
| 2010s ★ | 474 | |
| 2020s | 25 | |
💎With 1,090 total births, Keiran is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Keiran?
Common
KeiKeirKeirieKeiryIran
What names sound and feel like Keiran?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Keiran also consider these
How is Keiran written in other languages?
Gender variants of Keiran
Common questions about the name Keiran
What does the name Keiran mean?
Keiran 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 Keiran?
Keiran 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 Keiran?
Keiran 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.
Is Keiran a common or rare name?
Keiran is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Keiran more of a girl or boy name?
Keiran is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.