Find out how popular the first name Roanan has been for the last 15 years (from 2008 to 2022) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Roanan by gender

Based on the last 15 years of data, Roanan is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2022, there were 6 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Roanan.

The history of the first name Roanan

The given name Roanan is believed to have originated from the Old Irish Gaelic language, specifically from the word "ronán" which means "little seal" or "little otter." This name was widely used in Ireland and Scotland during the Middle Ages, around the 5th to 10th centuries AD.

The name Roanan is derived from the Celtic word "ron," meaning "seal" or "otter," which reflects the close connection between the ancient Celtic people and the natural world. The diminutive suffix "-án" was added to create the affectionate form "ronán," suggesting a fondness for these aquatic creatures.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Roanan can be found in the Annals of Ulster, an ancient Irish chronicle dating back to the 5th century. The chronicle mentions a figure named Roanan mac Colmáin, who was the King of Leinster in the 7th century.

In the 6th century, Saint Ronan (also spelled Ronan or Ronán) was an Irish missionary who founded several monasteries in Scotland, including the famous Iona Abbey. He is regarded as one of the earliest Christian missionaries to bring the faith to the Picts in what is now Scotland.

Another notable figure bearing the name Roanan was Ronan of Leitir, an Irish saint and abbot who lived in the 7th century. He established a monastery in County Donegal, Ireland, which became an important center of learning and religious study during his lifetime.

In the 9th century, Roanan mac Flannacáin was a renowned Irish poet and scholar who served as the Chief Poet of Ireland. His works were highly regarded and celebrated for their artistic merit and linguistic mastery.

During the 12th century, Roanan Ua Maoil Mhuaidh was a prominent Irish cleric and Bishop of Clogher, a diocese located in Ulster, Ireland. He played a significant role in the religious and cultural life of the region during his time.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals throughout history who bore the name Roanan, reflecting its long-standing presence and cultural significance within the Irish and Scottish traditions.

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

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

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