When it comes to naming a baby, parents often spend a lot of time researching and evaluating different name options. One name that has become increasingly popular in recent years is Keenan. In this article, we will explore the meaning of the name Keenan, its origins, popularity, and notable individuals who share the same name.
Origins of the Name Keenan
The name Keenan has Irish and Gaelic origins, which means “ancient” or “wise.” It is derived from the Irish name Cianán, which comes from the word Cian meaning “ancient.” Keenan also has Scottish roots, where it is derived from the Gaelic name Coinneach, which means “handsome” or “comely.”
Popularity of the Name Keenan
The name Keenan has been growing in popularity since the 1980s, particularly in the United States. According to the Social Security Administration’s records, the name Keenan was not listed in the top 1000 most popular names until 1979, when it ranked at #880. Since then, the name has steadily climbed in popularity, reaching its peak in 1995 when it ranked at #354. In recent years, the name Keenan has fallen slightly in popularity, ranking at #938 in 2020.
Notable Individuals Named Keenan
There are several notable individuals who share the name Keenan, including:
- Keenan Allen – American football player who currently plays for the Los Angeles Chargers in the NFL
- Keenan Cahill – Internet celebrity known for lip-syncing popular songs on YouTube
- Keenan Ivory Wayans – American comedian, actor, writer, and director, best known for creating and starring in the sketch comedy series “In Living Color”
- Keenan Wynn – American actor known for his roles in classic films such as “Annie Get Your Gun” and “Dr. Strangelove”
Variations of the Name Keenan
While Keenan is the most common spelling of the name, there are several variations that exist in different cultures and languages. Some of these include:
- Kianan
- Kienan
- Kenan
- Keanan
- Cianán
Naming a Child Keenan
If you are considering naming your child Keenan, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that you and your partner both like the name and that it fits with your family’s culture and traditions. You may also want to consider any potential nicknames or shortened versions of the name that could arise.
When it comes to middle names, a popular option for Keenan is to pair it with a more traditional or classic name, such as James, Michael, or William. However, ultimately the decision is up to you and what you feel sounds best with the first name.
Famous Characters Named Keenan
In addition to real-life individuals, there have been several fictional characters named Keenan throughout history. One notable example is Keenan Cahill, a character in the book series “The Iron Druid Chronicles” by Kevin Hearne. Another is Keenan Reynolds, a character in the video game “Call of Duty: Black Ops III.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the name Keenan has Irish and Gaelic origins and means “ancient” or “wise.” It has grown in popularity over the years and has produced several notable individuals in various fields. If you are considering naming your child Keenan, it is important to ensure that both you and your partner like the name and that it fits with your family’s culture and traditions. Ultimately, the decision is up to you, and we hope this article has provided helpful information on the meaning of the name Keenan.
FAQs
- Is Keenan a popular name?
- Yes, Keenan has been growing in popularity since the 1980s, particularly in the United States.
- What does the name Keenan mean?
- The name Keenan has Irish and Gaelic origins, which means “ancient” or “wise.”
- Are there any notable individuals named Keenan?
- Yes, some notable individuals named Keenan include American football player Keenan Allen and comedian Keenan Ivory Wayans.
- How do you spell Keenan?
- The most common spelling of the name is Keenan, but there are variations such as Kianan, Kienan, Kenan, Keanan, and Cianán.
- What are some middle names that pair well with Keenan?
- Popular options for middle names with Keenan include more traditional or classic names such as James, Michael, or William. However, ultimately the decision is up to personal preference.
We’re Emma Carole Paradis and Kimberly Carole, the owners and designers of Impeccable Nest, based in Bedford, New Hampshire. A mother-daughter team with a love of design. Originally from Manhattan Beach, California, now based in Bedford, New Hampshire, we bring a Southern California cool and New England tradition to our design. Not only do we work together…we also live together in a multi-generational home…and a home that they are known to design for others.
