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Kieran

♂ Boy

Pronounced KEER-an /ˈkɪər.ən/High

Meaning: Anglicized form of Irish Ciarán, from ciar meaning dark or black, with a diminutive suffix; the little dark oneHigh

In 30 seconds: Kieran is a spirited Irish name meaning 'little dark one,' borne by two beloved Irish saints, and carrying the authentic Celtic heritage that appeals to parents across the English-speaking world.
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Origin HighIrish Gaelic
MeaningAnglicized form of Irish Ciarán, from ciar meaning dark or black, with a diminutive suffix; the little dark one
U.S. rank (2025)#389 ↗ Rising
2025 U.S. births817 boys (0.04% of U.S. boys)
Peak year2025
Total births (all-time)≈ 17,605

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 202519182025

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Kieran is the anglicized spelling of Old Irish Ciarán, from the adjective ciar meaning dark or black, with the diminutive suffix -án. It was historically applied to dark-haired or dark-complexioned individuals.

The name spread across the English-speaking world in the 20th century alongside other Irish names. It is particularly popular in Ireland, the UK, and Australia, and has gained a following in the United States.

Did you know? There are two major Irish saints named Ciarán: one founded the great monastic school of Clonmacnoise around 545 CE, and the other is the patron of Ossory — giving the name a doubly saintly pedigree.
Overall data confidence 95%
Behind the Name — Kieran — etymology and saints historyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

CiaránKieferKyran

Nicknames

Kier

Famous Bearers

  • ★Saint Ciarán of Clonmacnoise (c. 516–545 CE)
    Irish monk who founded the great monastic city of Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland's most important medieval centers of learning.
  • ★Kiefer Sutherland (1966–present)
    Canadian-British actor known for his role in the TV series 24; born Kiefer William Frederick Dempsey George Rufus Sutherland.

If you like Kieran…

Declan— shares the authentic Irish saint's name heritage and crisp two-syllable sound
Cormac— fellow Irish Gaelic name with deep historical roots and modern appeal
Ronan— Celtic name with the same diminutive structure and lyrical quality
Finn— another beloved Irish name with light and playful Celtic spirit

Frequently Asked

What does the name Kieran mean?

Kieran means little dark one from Irish Gaelic ciar (dark) with a diminutive suffix.

How do you pronounce Kieran?

It is said KEER-an /ˈkɪər.ən/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Kieran an Irish name?

Yes, Kieran is the anglicized form of the Irish saint's name Ciarán, deeply rooted in Irish heritage.

Is Kieran a boy or girl name?

Kieran is primarily a boys' name, though it occasionally appears for girls.