The Meaning and Popularity of the Name Keenan

Keenan is a male name of Irish origin, derived from the Irish surname Ó Cianáin. The name means "little old one" or "ancient one." Common variations of Keenan include Keenen, Keenan, and Keevan.

In 2022, Keenan ranked 1,148th in popularity for baby names in the United States, with 7 babies given the name. Though a relatively uncommon choice today, Keenan has seen moderate popularity over the past century. The name has ranked within the top 1,000 U.S. baby names since the early 1900s, peaking in the 1990s when it reached the 500s.

A few notable people who share the name Keenan include Keenan Ivory Wayans, an American actor, comedian, director, and producer known for his work on sketch comedy shows like In Living Color. Keenan Thompson is also a well-known American actor and comedian, appearing on shows like Saturday Night Live.

Keenan is considered a classic Irish name with a warm, friendly feel. It tends to appeal to parents drawn to names with an old-world charm and connection to their heritage. The name projects a sense of wisdom and maturity, and may be chosen for a son by parents hoping to instill these qualities.

Keenan is often associated with traits like intelligence, sensitivity, and a unique perspective on life. The name has a rhythmic, melodic quality that flows well with many middle and last names. Some complementary pairings include Keenan James, Keenan Alexander, and Keenan Patrick.

In literature and popular culture, there are a few notable references to the name Keenan. In the novel The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky, one of the main characters is named Alyosha Karamazov, whose full name is Alexei Fyodorovich Karamazov. The name Keenan shares a similar Old Slavic/Russian style and sound.

If you're considering the name Keenan for your son, some similar-styled alternatives to consider include:

• Declan
• Finn
• Ronan

Overall, Keenan is a classic Irish name with a warm, likable feel. For parents drawn to names with historical roots and cultural significance, Keenan could be an excellent choice.