📅 Since 1881🏆 10 years in top 1000.3% of births at peak
How to pronounce Nolan
NAH·lun
/ˈnɑ.lən/ · stress on NAH · 2 syllables
“Noble, famous”
Ireland origin · Boy name
What does Nolan mean and where does it come from?
Originally a male name, Nolan has been increasingly used as a female name in recent years. It is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name 'Ó Nualláin', meaning 'descendant of Nuallan'. The name Nuallan itself means 'noble' or 'famous'. Nolan has seen significant popularity in the United States,
Cultural significance
Nolan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of noble, famous.
Rising — up 8 spots — currently #57 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1895–2023#57 · Top 0.04%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#57
5,123
▲ up 8 · +4% births
2022
#65
4,924
▼ down 5 · -8% births
2021
#60
5,352
▲ up 1 · +4% births
2020
#61
5,164
▲ up 10 · -10% births
2015
#71
5,736
▲ up 33 · +56% births
2010
#104
3,688
▲ up 45 · +36% births
2005
#149
2,718
▲ up 32 · +34% births
2000
#181
2,027
▲ up 82 · +90% births
1995
#263
1,066
▲ up 39 · +26% births
1990
#302
845
▲ up 77 · +76% births
1985
#379
479
▲ up 85 · +45% births
1980
#464
330
▲ up 105 · +64% births
1975
#569
201
▲ up 38 · +12% births
1970
#607
180
▲ up 97 · +61% births
1965
#704
112
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Nolan
2023Rank #57
5,736
#375
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Nolan
Nolan has been a beloved American name for over 143 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1881. Its peak popularity was #61 in 2020. More than 110,646 babies have been named Nolan since 1881. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #845 in 1895 to #57 in 2023. Nolan is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Nolan means "Noble, famous" — 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 Nolan?
Nolan is currently ranked #57 in the United States 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 Nolan?
Nolan 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 Nolan?
Nolan is a two-syllable name pronounced N AA1 L AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Nolan more of a girl or boy name?
Nolan is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Nolan
For a sister
Nolan & Riley♡
Nolan & Maeve♡
Nolan & Quinn♡
Nolan & Declan♡
For a brother
Nolan & Declan♡
Nolan & Sloane♡
Nolan & Reagan♡
Nolan & Finn♡
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