The given name Conan has its origins in the Gaelic language, specifically derived from the Irish Gaelic "cú" meaning "hound" or "wolf," and the suffix "-án" meaning "little." The name Conan was commonly used in Ireland and Scotland during the Middle Ages.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Conan dates back to the 7th century AD, when a Scottish king named Conan Cerr ruled the Gaelic kingdom of Dál Riata from around 658 to 668 AD. The name also appears in ancient Irish legends and folklore, such as the tale of Conan Maol, a legendary Irish warrior and the grandson of Niall Noígiallach, a prominent king of the 5th century.

In the 11th century, Conan II of Brittany, also known as Conan the Younger, was the Duke of Brittany from 1040 to 1066. He played a significant role in the Norman conquest of England, supporting William the Conqueror's claim to the English throne.

Another notable historical figure with the name Conan was Conan of Leinster, an Irish king who ruled the Kingdom of Leinster in the 12th century. He was a prominent figure in the Norman invasion of Ireland and was involved in conflicts with the Anglo-Norman forces.

In the 20th century, the name Conan became more widely recognized due to the popularity of the fictional character Conan the Barbarian, created by the American writer Robert E. Howard in the 1930s. The character's adventures were set in the Hyborian Age, a fictional period inspired by the ancient civilizations of the Bronze Age.

Other notable individuals with the name Conan include Conan Doyle, the Scottish author best known for creating the iconic character Sherlock Holmes (1859-1930), and Conan O'Brien, the American television host and comedian (born 1963).

While the name Conan may have its roots in ancient Gaelic culture, it has transcended its historical origins and gained popularity in various cultures and contexts, particularly through its association with literature, mythology, and popular culture.