The name Quinlan is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic words "cuinn" meaning "chief" and "leann" meaning "cloak" or "mantle." It is believed to have first emerged in the 12th century as a surname for descendants of a prominent chieftain or leader who wore a distinctive cloak or mantle.

In its earliest recorded use, the name Quinlan appeared as a surname in the Annals of the Four Masters, a chronicle of medieval Irish history compiled in the early 17th century. The text mentions several notable figures with the surname Quinlan, including Amhlaoibh Ó Cuinn, a 13th-century poet and historian.

As a given name, Quinlan is thought to have gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly among Irish-American families seeking to honor their heritage. One of the earliest recorded examples of the name being used as a first name is Quinlan Terry, a British architect born in 1937.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Quinlan. One of the most famous was Quinlan Robertson (1904-1971), an American actor and playwright who appeared in numerous Broadway productions and Hollywood films during the mid-20th century.

Another noteworthy figure was Quinlan D. Thompson Jr. (1934-2005), an American lawyer and civil rights activist who played a pivotal role in desegregating public schools in Virginia in the 1960s.

In the realm of sports, Quinlan Vos (born 1985) is a South African rugby union player who has represented his country in several international competitions.

The name Quinlan has also been associated with literary figures, such as Quinlan McGrath (1944-2013), an Irish-American author and screenwriter known for works like "The Adventures of Milo and Otis" and "Wagons East."

Finally, Quinlan Shemski (born 1991) is a contemporary American artist and sculptor whose works have been exhibited in galleries across the United States and Europe.