The name Darrin is an English variant of the Irish name Dáire, which means "fertile" or "fruitful". It originated from the Gaelic word "dair", meaning "oak tree". The name has its roots in ancient Celtic culture, where oak trees were revered as symbols of strength, endurance, and fertility.

In its earliest form, the name was spelled as "Dáire" or "Daire" in ancient Irish texts and historical records. It was a popular name among the Celts, particularly in Ireland, where it was associated with druids and their reverence for nature.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name can be found in the Annals of Ulster, a chronicle of medieval Irish history. It mentions a king named Dáire Dornmhor, who ruled over parts of Ulster in the 6th century.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Darrin or its variants. One of the most famous was Dáire mac Dáire Cerbba (fl. 507-546), an Irish saint and abbot who founded the monastery of Disert-Daire (now Castledermot) in County Kildare, Ireland.

Another prominent figure was Dáire Dornmhor (fl. 507-565), a semi-legendary Irish king who ruled over parts of Ulster and Connacht in the 6th century. He is mentioned in several medieval Irish tales, including the Táin Bó Cúailnge (The Cattle Raid of Cooley).

In more recent times, the name Darrin gained popularity in the English-speaking world, particularly in the United States. One notable bearer was Darrin McGavin (1922-2006), an American actor best known for his role as Carl Kolchak in the television series "Kolchak: The Night Stalker".

Another famous Darrin was Darrin Stephens, the fictional character portrayed by Dick York and later Dick Sargent in the popular 1960s sitcom "Bewitched". The character's name was a nod to the Irish origins of the name.

In literature, Darrin is the name of a character in the novel "The Corrections" by Jonathan Franzen, published in 2001. The character, Darrin Franzen, is a successful businessman and the son of the main protagonist, Alfred Franzen.

While the name Darrin has roots in ancient Celtic culture, it has evolved and gained popularity across various regions and cultures, particularly in the English-speaking world. Its connection to nature, fertility, and strength has endured throughout its long history, making it a name with rich cultural significance.