What does Tegan mean and where does it come from?
Tegan is a Welsh name, which has gained popularity in English-speaking countries. It is derived from the Welsh word 'teg,' meaning beautiful. The name has been in use since the late 20th century and is often associated with a strong, independent character. Notable people with the name include Tegan
Cultural significance
Tegan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Wales-speaking communities, where it reflects values of beautiful, fair.
Peak popularity
Reached #778 in 2011 — currently #1833 in the US.
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Related Reading
Wales-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Tegan?
Tegan works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Tegan Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Tegan Rose
Floral · soft ending
Tegan Mae
Sweet · timeless
Tegan Claire
French influence · crisp
Tegan Jane
Literary · strong
Tegan Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Tegan right now?
Falling — down 153 spots — currently #1833 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1833 | 110 | ▼ down 153 · -12% births |
| 2022 | #1680 | 125 | ▼ down 338 · -24% births |
| 2021 | #1342 | 165 | ▼ down 106 · -10% births |
| 2020 | #1236 | 183 | ▼ down 287 · -36% births |
| 2015 | #949 | 286 | ▼ down 11 · +4% births |
| 2010 | #938 | 275 | ▲ up 525 · +90% births |
| 2005 | #1463 | 145 | ▲ up 414 · +59% births |
| 2000 | #1877 | 91 | ▲ up 292 · +47% births |
| 1995 | #2169 | 62 | ▼ down 559 · -33% births |
| 1990 | #1610 | 93 | ▼ down 486 · -28% births |
| 1985 | #1124 | 129 | ▲ up 1301 · +223% births |
| 1980 | #2425 | 40 | ▲ up 3805 · +344% births |
| 1975 | #6230 | 9 | — |
The story of Tegan
Tegan entered American naming records in 1957 and has been in use for over 67 years. With 8,482 total births recorded, Tegan remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6230 in 1975 to #1833 in 2023. Tegan is used for both genders: 73% female and 27% male.
Names that peaked alongside Tegan in 2011:
Tegan by decade
Tegan peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 5 | |
| 1960s | 14 | |
| 1970s | 173 | |
| 1980s | 800 | |
| 1990s | 888 | |
| 2000s | 2,603 | |
| 2010s ★ | 3,752 | |
| 2020s | 247 | |
💎With 8,482 total births, Tegan is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Tegan?
What names sound and feel like Tegan?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Tegan also consider these
Common questions about the name Tegan
What does the name Tegan mean?
Tegan means "beautiful, fair" — a name rooted in Wales 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 Tegan?
Tegan is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby 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 Tegan?
Tegan originates from Wales tradition. Wales names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Tegan a common or rare name?
Tegan is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Tegan more of a girl or boy name?
Tegan is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.