Find out how popular the first name Caolan has been for the last 35 years (from 1989 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Caolan by gender

Based on the last 35 years of data, Caolan 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 Caolan.

The history of the first name Caolan

The given name Caolan originates from Irish Gaelic and is believed to have its roots in the Old Irish word "caolán," meaning "slender" or "thin." This name has been in use in Ireland for centuries, particularly in the northern regions of the country.

Caolan is a masculine name, and its earliest recorded instances can be traced back to ancient Irish manuscripts and genealogical records from the Middle Ages. However, it is worth noting that spelling variations such as "Caoláin" and "Caoilín" were also common during this period.

While the name Caolan does not appear to have any direct references in religious scriptures or ancient texts, it has been borne by several notable individuals throughout Irish history. One of the earliest recorded figures with this name was Caolan Óg Ó Lochlainn, a 13th-century Irish chieftain and leader of the Ó Lochlainn dynasty in County Donegal.

In the 16th century, Caolan Ó Máille (born circa 1520) was a prominent Irish sailor and pirate who operated off the west coast of Ireland. His exploits and daring raids against English ships during the Tudor conquest of Ireland made him a legendary figure in Irish folklore.

Another notable bearer of the name was Caolan Mac Uidhir (1670-1726), a renowned Irish harpist and composer from County Fermanagh. His compositions and performances were instrumental in preserving and promoting traditional Irish music during a time of cultural suppression.

In the 19th century, Caolan Ó Raghallaigh (1828-1899) was a celebrated Irish language scholar, writer, and educator. He played a crucial role in the preservation and promotion of the Irish language through his publications and teaching efforts.

More recently, Caolan Madden (born 1976) is a contemporary Irish artist and sculptor known for his large-scale public installations and works that explore themes of identity, memory, and place.

While the name Caolan has deep roots in Irish history and culture, it has also gained popularity in recent times, particularly among those with Irish heritage or an appreciation for Celtic names. Its slender and melodic sound has contributed to its enduring appeal across generations.

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 Caolan was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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