Kerin

“little dark one” — Associated with Irish heritage

Ireland origin · Unisex name

♂ 16% boys♀ 84% girls

#732US 2023

1.5kBirths / yr

→Stable

1.6kAll-time births

📅 Since 193500

What does Kerin mean and where does it come from?

Kerin is derived from the Irish name 'Ciara', which means 'dark’ or 'black'. It may also relate to the Gaelic word 'Kieran'. Typically associated with Irish heritage, Kerin gained traction in the United States as an appealing name for girls among those with ancestral ties to Ireland. Its variants an

Cultural significance

Kerin has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of little dark one.

Peak popularity

Reached #1813 in 1958 — currently #732 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Kerin?

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

Kerin Grace

How popular is Kerin right now?

Holding steady — currently #732 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1935–2023#732 · Top 0.54%

1950

1955

1960

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2010

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#732	1,468	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#737	1,448	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#742	1,418	▲ up 16486 · +28260% births
2010	#17228	5	▼ down 10348 · -67% births
2000	#6880	15	▼ down 855
1995	#6025	15	▼ down 402 · -6% births
1990	#5623	16	▼ down 2433 · -43% births
1985	#3190	28	▼ down 471 · -18% births
1980	#2719	34	▼ down 232 · +6% births
1975	#2487	32	▼ down 150 · -3% births
1970	#2337	33	▼ down 150 · +10% births
1965	#2187	30	▼ down 140 · -6% births
1960	#2047	32	▲ up 2209 · +256% births
1955	#4256	9	▲ up 1549 · +80% births
1950	#5805	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Kerin

Best Year2023Rank #732

Peak Count1,468

Average Rank#4240

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1935 - 202316 years

The story of Kerin

Kerin entered American naming records in 1935 and has been in use for over 89 years. With 1,570 total births recorded, Kerin remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4849 in 1935 to #732 in 2023. Kerin is used for both genders: 84% female and 16% male.

Names that peaked alongside Kerin in 1958:

Mary Susan Linda Karen Patricia

Kerin by decade

Kerin peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →

Decade	Births
1930s	40
1940s	16
1950s	198
1960s ★	373
1970s	333
1980s	323
1990s	165
2000s	107
2010s	15

💎With 1,570 total births, Kerin is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Kerin?

Common

KerKerieKery

What names sound and feel like Kerin?

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

Kerrin

Ireland · Irish

Kerlin

Ireland · Little dark one.

Ireland · What's sacred

Kedrin

Russia · Bearer of the

Kevin

American · handsome

Common questions about the name Kerin

What does the name Kerin mean?

Kerin means "little dark 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 Kerin?

Kerin is currently ranked #732 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 Kerin?

Kerin 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 Kerin more of a girl or boy name?

Kerin is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.

What are good nicknames for Kerin?

Kerin 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.