Find out how popular the first name Can has been for the last 45 years (from 1979 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Can by gender

Based on the last 45 years of data, Can is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 20 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Can.

The history of the first name Can

The name Can is a masculine given name with its origins rooted in the Turkish and Persian languages. It is derived from the ancient Persian word "Khan," which means "king" or "sovereign." The name's earliest recorded use dates back to the 6th century, during the reign of the Sasanian Empire in ancient Persia.

In Turkish, the name Can is often associated with concepts of life, vitality, and the soul. It is believed to have been influenced by the Persian word "Jan," which means "life" or "soul." This connection has contributed to the name's popularity and significance in Turkish culture.

One of the earliest and most notable historical figures bearing the name Can was Can Demir, a renowned Turkish warrior who lived in the 13th century. He played a crucial role in the expansion of the Seljuk Empire and was celebrated for his bravery and military prowess.

Another influential figure was Can Yücel, a prominent Turkish poet and writer born in 1926. He made significant contributions to Turkish literature and was known for his powerful and thought-provoking works that explored themes of social justice and human rights.

In the realm of sports, Can Bartu, a Turkish basketball player born in 1988, gained recognition for his exceptional skills and achievements on the court. He represented the Turkish national team and played for several professional clubs throughout his career.

Moving to the world of film and television, Can Evrenol is a Turkish film director and screenwriter born in 1975. He is best known for his critically acclaimed horror films that blend elements of Turkish folklore and cultural traditions with contemporary storytelling techniques.

Lastly, Can Öncü, born in 2003, is a rising star in the world of motorsports. At a young age, he has already made a name for himself as a talented Turkish motorcycle racer, competing in various international competitions and showcasing his skills on the track.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have carried the name Can throughout history, each leaving their mark in their respective fields and contributing to the cultural significance and legacy of this 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 Can was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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