The name Morrigan has its origins in Irish mythology, specifically in the figure of the Morrigan, a powerful goddess associated with war, fate, and sovereignty. The name is derived from the Old Irish words "mor" meaning "great" and "rigan" meaning "queen."

In ancient Irish folklore, the Morrigan was a complex and multifaceted deity, often appearing in the form of a raven or other carrion bird on the battlefield. She was revered for her ability to shape-shift and influence the outcome of battles. The Morrigan is prominently featured in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology, particularly in the epic tale of the Táin Bó Cúailnge.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Morrigan can be found in the 12th-century Book of Leinster, which contains a collection of Irish mythological tales. The Morrigan is also mentioned in several other medieval Irish texts, such as the Book of Invasions and the Metrical Dindshenchas.

Throughout history, the name Morrigan has been borne by a few notable individuals, although its use as a given name was relatively rare until more recent times. One of the earliest recorded individuals with this name was Morrigan MacNessa, a 9th-century Irish princess and daughter of the King of Ulster.

In the 16th century, Morrigan O'Donnell was a renowned Irish noblewoman and chieftain's wife, known for her bravery and leadership during the Nine Years' War against English forces.

Fast-forwarding to the 20th century, Morrigan Edouard (1910-1984) was a French-Canadian artist and illustrator renowned for her intricate botanical illustrations.

Another notable bearer of the name was Morrigan Webb (1942-2006), an American author and academic who wrote extensively on topics related to Celtic mythology and folklore.

More recently, Morrigan Aensland is a popular fictional character from the Darkstalkers video game series, introduced in 1994. Her name and character design draw heavily from the Irish goddess Morrigan, cementing the name's association with themes of power, mystery, and the supernatural.