Ciaran

Ciaran

See My Baby Name List
Table of Contents
1. Ciaran name meaning and origin
2. Ciaran name popularity
3. Variations and nicknames of Ciaran
4. Best name combinations with Ciaran
5. Numerology of Ciaran name
6. Ciaran name in pop culture
7. Famous people named Ciaran
8. Names similar to Ciaran

1. Ciaran name meaning and origin

The name Ciaran, alternatively spelled as Ciarán, is of Irish Gaelic origin and stems from the word 'ciar,' meaning 'dark' or 'black.' This typically refers to dark features such as hair, eyes, or complexion. The name has ancient roots in Irish history and culture, dating back to early medieval Ireland where it was a relatively common male given name.

Ciaran holds significant historical importance in Irish tradition, as it was borne by several prominent Irish saints, most notably Saint Ciaran of Clonmacnoise and Saint Ciaran of Saighir, both influential figures in early Irish Christianity during the 5th and 6th centuries. The name's continued popularity through centuries reflects its deep cultural significance in Ireland and, more recently, in other English-speaking countries where Irish heritage maintains influence. The anglicized version of the name is sometimes rendered as Kieran, which preserves the phonetic pronunciation while adapting to English spelling conventions.

2. Ciaran name popularity

Girl
Boy
#0
in 2023
0
from 2022
Popularity of Ciaran
United States
United Kingdom

Ciaran is an Irish name with Gaelic origins, derived from "Ciar" meaning "dark" or "black." While traditionally a masculine name, records show it appears as both male and female in the United States and United Kingdom, though it is predominantly given to boys. The name has maintained a modest presence in both countries without appearing in top ranking lists in recent years.

In Ireland, Ciaran carries historical significance, associated with several early Irish saints including Saint Ciaran of Clonmacnoise and Saint Ciaran of Saigir. Despite its rich heritage, the name remains relatively uncommon outside of Ireland, giving it a distinctive quality when encountered in other English-speaking countries.

3. Variations and nicknames of Ciaran

The name Ciaran, with Irish and Gaelic origins meaning 'little dark one' or 'black-haired,' boasts numerous spelling variations across different cultures. In Ireland, where the name originated, you'll find the traditional Irish spellings Ciarán and Kieran, with the former featuring the fada accent mark over the 'a'. Scottish variants include Cearan and Kiernan, while the anglicized versions Kieran and Keiran have gained popularity in English-speaking countries. The feminine variations Ciara, Kiera, and Keira have also evolved from the same root. In Wales, you might encounter Cieron, while the less common variants Kyran and Kyryn represent modern adaptations of this ancient name. The Cornish version Kieren adds yet another dimension to this versatile name's global presence.

As with many traditional names, Ciaran has generated several affectionate nicknames and diminutives over centuries. Common informal forms include Ci (pronounced 'kee'), Kier, and Kie for shorter options. More playful variations like Cici, Kiki, and Ranny are popular among family members and close friends. Irish speakers might use the endearing term 'Ciarán Beag' (meaning little Ciaran) for children, while 'Ci-boy' represents a modern hybrid nickname. For those named Kieran, nicknames like K, Ren, and Kerry have become standard alternatives. Regional differences influence nickname preferences, with American families often favoring Key or KC, while Irish and Scottish families might lean toward traditional diminutives like Iar or the shortened form Ran.

4. Best name combinations with Ciaran

Middle names that pair well with Ciaran:

  • Ciaran Alexander
  • Ciaran James
  • Ciaran Patrick
  • Ciaran Eoghan
  • Ciaran Finnian
  • Ciaran Declan
  • Ciaran Ronan
  • Ciaran Thomas
  • Ciaran Liam
  • Ciaran Daire
  • Ciaran William
  • Ciaran Seamus
  • Ciaran Aidan
  • Ciaran Michael
  • Ciaran Donnelly
  • Ciaran Niall
  • Ciaran Joseph
  • Ciaran Conall
  • Ciaran Finley
  • Ciaran Brendan

Names that go well when Ciaran is used as a middle name:

  • Aiden Ciaran
  • Connor Ciaran
  • Liam Ciaran
  • Rowan Ciaran
  • Declan Ciaran
  • Finn Ciaran
  • Sean Ciaran
  • Callum Ciaran
  • Patrick Ciaran
  • Eoin Ciaran
  • Kieran Ciaran
  • Owen Ciaran
  • Thomas Ciaran
  • Brendan Ciaran
  • Dylan Ciaran
  • Niall Ciaran
  • Rory Ciaran
  • Cormac Ciaran
  • Fionn Ciaran
  • Ian Ciaran

5. Numerology of Ciaran name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

7
C(3) + I(9) + A(1) + R(9) + A(1) + N(5) = 28 = 2+8 = 10 = 1+0 = 7

The Destiny Number 7 indicates a deeply analytical, introspective, and philosophical nature. You're drawn to seeking knowledge, understanding life's mysteries, and pursuing intellectual growth. In career, you excel in research, analysis, specialized fields, or areas requiring deep focus and independent thinking. In relationships, you may need space and understanding from partners as you process thoughts internally. You value meaningful connections over superficial ones.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

3
Vowels: I(9) + A(1) + A(1) = 11 = 1+1 = 2

The Soul Urge Number 3 reveals an inner desire for self-expression, creativity, and joy. At your core, you long to communicate, create, and bring happiness to others. You're naturally optimistic and sociable. Your heart yearns for freedom to express yourself artistically or verbally. In relationships, you seek fun, laughter, and stimulating conversation. Career fulfillment comes through creative outlets, communication, or bringing joy to others.

Personality Number:

5
Consonants: C(3) + R(9) + N(5) = 17 = 1+7 = 8

The Personality Number 8 represents how others perceive you—as confident, ambitious, and authoritative. You likely present yourself as capable, practical, and business-minded. People see you as someone who values achievement and material success. In professional settings, you're viewed as leadership material. In relationships, you may come across as protective and security-focused, though sometimes intimidating due to your strong presence.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

6. Ciaran name in pop culture

Name
Description
Ciarán Hinds
Acclaimed Irish actor known for roles in Game of Thrones (as Mance Rayder), Harry Potter (as Aberforth Dumbledore), and films like Munich, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, and Belfast
Kieran Culkin
American actor who portrayed Roman Roy in the HBO series Succession, with his name being an Anglicized variant of Ciarán
Ciarán McDermott
Character in the 2003 film Veronica Guerin, portrayed by Barry Barnes, based on a real Irish journalist who investigated drug trafficking
Ciaran
Character in the 2009 video game Demon's Souls, a wise sage who teaches magic to the player character
Ciaran O'Reilly
Character in the novel and film series The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, a supporting character in the Narnian world

7. Famous people named Ciaran

Name
Description
Ciarán Hinds
Irish actor known for roles in Game of Thrones as Mance Rayder, Rome as Julius Caesar, and films like Munich, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, and Belfast
Cillian Murphy
Irish actor renowned for Peaky Blinders, Inception, and his Academy Award-winning role in Oppenheimer
Ciarán Fitzgerald
Former Irish rugby union player who captained both Ireland and the British & Irish Lions teams in the 1980s
Ciarán McDonald
Irish Gaelic footballer who played for Mayo, known for his distinctive playing style and accuracy
Ciarán Cuffe
Irish politician and Member of the European Parliament representing the Green Party
Ciarán Bourke
Irish musician and founding member of the influential folk band The Dubliners
Ciarán Kilkenny
Irish Gaelic footballer who plays for Dublin, multiple All-Ireland Senior Football Championship winner
Ciarán Clark
Professional footballer who has played for Newcastle United, Aston Villa, and the Republic of Ireland national team
Ciarán Foy
Irish film director known for horror films including Citadel and Sinister 2
Ciarán McMenamin
Northern Irish actor known for roles in BBC dramas and the film To End All Wars, as well as being a published novelist

8. Names similar to Ciaran

Baby Name Generator

Generate a perfect name for your baby

Our Baby Name Generator helps you find the perfect name, sorted by gender, letter, meaning, and more. You don't need to fill out every field, just the ones you're interested in.

I'm looking for
  • Boy
  • Girl
  • Both
names with the
, starting with
and ending with
with
syllables.
I like names that mean
and are
  • Any theme
  • Biblical
  • Classic
  • Color-inspired
  • Cool and creative
  • Disney characters
  • Elegant
  • Flowers
  • Gender-neutral
  • Hipster
  • Musical
  • Mythology
  • Nature
  • Old-fashioned
  • Places
  • Popular-namealternatives
  • Shakespeare
  • Short and sweet
  • Southern
  • Uniqu
  • Wild West
names.
Show me names of
  • Any origin
  • African
  • African American
  • American
  • American Indian
  • British
  • Arabic
  • Aramaic
  • Armenian
  • Basque
  • Celtic
  • Chechen
  • Chinese
  • Dutch
  • Egyptian
  • English
  • Eritrean
  • Filipino
  • French
  • Gaelic
  • German
  • Ghanaian
  • Greek
  • Hawaiian
  • Hebrew
  • Hindi
  • Hindu
  • Hungarian
  • Indian
  • Irish
  • Italian
  • Japanese
  • Korean
  • Latin
  • Maori
  • Muslim
  • Native American
  • Nigerian
  • Persian
  • Polish
  • Polynesian
  • Punjabi
  • Russian
  • Sanskrit
  • Scandinavian
  • Scottish
  • Slavic
  • Spanish
  • Swahili
  • Swedish
  • Teutonic
  • Tongan
  • Turkish
  • Ugandan
  • Vietnamese
  • Welsh
  • Yoruban
Origin.

Search by name

Looking for baby name ideas, advice, meanings, and popularity.

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Popularity All names
All names
Show top 50
Show top 100
Exclude top 50
Exclude top 100
Sort by Most popular
Most popular
A to Z
Z to A
Table of Contents
1. Ciaran name meaning and origin
2. Ciaran name popularity
3. Variations and nicknames of Ciaran
4. Best name combinations with Ciaran
5. Numerology of Ciaran name
6. Ciaran name in pop culture
7. Famous people named Ciaran
8. Names similar to Ciaran