The Name Keegan: Origin, Meaning, and Popularity

Keegan is a name of Irish origin that has steadily grown in popularity in the United States over the past few decades. With its strong, rhythmic sound and distinctive Celtic roots, Keegan makes an appealing choice for modern parents seeking a name that is both traditional and modern.

Origin and Meaning

The name Keegan has its origins in the Irish surname Ó Cadhain, meaning "descendant of Cadhain." Cadhain was an old Gaelic personal name derived from the word "cael," meaning "slender." As a given name, Keegan has come to be associated with the traits of slenderness, agility, and elegance.

Variations of the name include Keagan, Keigan, and Keighan, though the spelling "Keegan" remains by far the most common. The name is sometimes considered a masculine form of the female name Keegan, though they share the same root.

Popularity and Notable Name Bearers

In the United States, Keegan has gained steady popularity in recent decades, ranking #567 for boys born in 2022 with 7,017 newborns receiving the name. This represents a significant rise from the 1990s, when the name was outside the Top 1,000 altogether.

Some notable real-life Keegans include:

• Keegan-Michael Key, American actor and comedian known for the comedy sketch series Key & Peele
• Keegan Allen, American actor known for his role on the TV series Pretty Little Liars
• Keegan-Michael Key, Canadian professional ice hockey player

While these famous Keegans are all male, the name can work equally well for girls, with a few high-profile female Keegans like journalist Keegan-Elaine Rayner.

Style and Traits

Keegan is considered a classic Irish or Celtic name that has a modern, somewhat rugged edge. It fits well with other popular contemporary names for boys that have a hint of Irish heritage, like Liam, Connor, and Declan.

Parents drawn to Keegan often appreciate its strong, masculine sound combined with an aura of intelligence and sophistication. Boys with this name are often seen as confident, athletic, and independent – traits well-suited to its slender, energetic meaning.

The name flows smoothly with many common middle and last names, from James Keegan Miller to Connor Keegan Anderson. Its rhythmic, three-syllable structure gives it an authoritative, regal feel.

Cultural Significance

Keegan has scattered references in Irish, Scottish, and Welsh culture and literature, though it is not tied to any singular famous figure or event. The name does appear in several novels and short stories, often as a protagonist or central character.

In the fantasy novel The Fionavar Tapestry by Canadian author Guy Gavriel Kay, Keegan is the name of a young warrior. Keegan also appears as a character name in works by Scottish author Walter Scott and Welsh novelist Sharon Penman.

Alternative Name Ideas

For parents seeking names with a similar style and origin to Keegan, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Aidan - Another classic Irish name meaning "little fire"
• Liam - A top-ranked Irish name meaning "strong-willed warrior"
• Colin - An established Scottish/Irish name meaning "young pup"
• Ronan - A steadily rising Irish name meaning "little seal"

Ultimately, the name Keegan offers parents a distinctive, energetic choice with deep Celtic roots and a modern, sophisticated edge. Its timeless appeal and positive associations make it a great fit for many families.