Find out how popular the first name Bohan has been for the last 14 years (from 2010 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Bohan by gender

Based on the last 14 years of data, Bohan is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 6 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Bohan.

The history of the first name Bohan

The given name Bohan is of Irish origin, with its roots traced back to the Gaelic language. It is believed to have emerged in the medieval era, around the 5th to 10th centuries AD, when the Gaelic culture flourished across Ireland and parts of Scotland.

Bohan is derived from the Gaelic word "bó", which means "cow" or "cattle", and the suffix "-án", which denotes a diminutive form or endearment. Therefore, the name Bohan can be interpreted as "little cow" or "little cowherd", suggesting a connection to the pastoral traditions of the ancient Irish societies.

While the name does not appear to have been directly referenced in ancient texts or religious scriptures, it is believed to have been in use among the Gaelic-speaking communities of Ireland during the medieval period. The earliest recorded instances of the name Bohan can be found in Irish genealogical records and annals from the 12th century onwards.

Notable historical figures who bore the name Bohan include:

1. Bohan O'Reilly (c. 1580 - c. 1650), an Irish chieftain and leader of the O'Reilly clan in County Cavan, Ireland, during the 17th century.

2. Bohan Mac Donagh (c. 1610 - c. 1680), an Irish poet and bard from County Sligo, known for his compositions in the Irish language.

3. Bohan O'Malley (c. 1720 - c. 1795), an Irish merchant and trader who established a successful business in the port city of Galway in the 18th century.

4. Bohan McGuire (c. 1810 - c. 1885), an Irish immigrant to the United States who served as a Union soldier during the American Civil War and received the Medal of Honor for his bravery in battle.

5. Bohan O'Donnell (c. 1875 - c. 1940), an Irish revolutionary and member of the Irish Republican Brotherhood, who participated in the Easter Rising of 1916 and the subsequent Irish War of Independence.

While the name Bohan may not be as common today as it once was in Ireland, it remains a part of the rich cultural heritage and linguistic tradition of the Gaelic-speaking peoples, serving as a reminder of the pastoral roots and historical significance of this ancient name.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Bohan was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Bohan, please contact us.

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