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Origin and meaning of the name Coleen

What is the origin of the name Coleen?

The origin of the name Coleen is Irish. It is derived from the Irish Gaelic name "Cailín," which means "girl" or "young woman."

Learn more about the origin of the name Coleen

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Coleen

The name Coleen is derived from the Irish Gaelic name "Cailín," which means "girl" or "young woman." It is a feminine and charming name that originated in Ireland. Coleen could also be seen as a variant of the name Colleen, which gained popularity in the mid-20th century. The name Coleen has a sweet and youthful essence, reflecting its original meaning. It often symbolizes qualities such as innocence, purity, and beauty. People with this name tend to be kind-hearted, compassionate, and nurturing. In terms of popularity, the name Coleen experienced peak usage in the 1950s and 1960s, possibly influenced by a famous song from that era called "Come Back to Erin," which referred to an Irish girl named Coleen. Additionally, the fame of American actress and singer Coleen Gray in the mid-20th century might have contributed to the name's popularity. Overall, the name Coleen is a timeless choice for parents seeking a classic and feminine name with Irish origins, evoking images of youthful charm and grace.

Character traits associated with the name Coleen

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Popularity of the name Coleen

The popularity of the first name Coleen has fluctuated over the years. In the United States, Coleen experienced its highest level of popularity in the 1940s and 1950s. It was ranked within the top 400 names during this time, indicating that it was quite commonly chosen for baby girls. However, since then, its popularity has steadily declined. By the 1970s, Coleen dropped out of the top 500 names and continued to decrease in usage. Nowadays, it is considered a relatively rare name. This decline in popularity could be attributed to the emergence of other names that gained more traction or went through fashionable trends. Additionally, changing naming preferences and shifting cultural influences could have also played a role. Despite its decline, Coleen remains a unique and charming name with a long history and a touch of nostalgia.

Famous people with the name Coleen

Colleen is a first name that has been associated with several famous personalities over the years. One notable figure is Colleen Moore, an American actress who rose to fame in the 1920s. Known for her portrayal of flapper characters, Moore appeared in numerous silent films and became one of the most popular actresses of the era. Another well-known individual is Coleen Rooney, a British television personality and philanthropist. Married to professional footballer Wayne Rooney, Coleen gained significant media attention as a prominent Wag (wives and girlfriends) and has since launched successful fashion and beauty brands. Additionally, Colleen Atwood is a renowned costume designer who has contributed to numerous critically acclaimed films, including "Chicago" and "Alice in Wonderland." Her work has earned her several Academy Awards, making her one of the most celebrated costume designers in the industry. These talented individuals have left a lasting impact in their respective fields, cementing the name Colleen in popular culture.

Variations of the name Coleen

The name Coleen has various spellings and variations across different cultures and regions. In its most common form, Coleen is a feminine name of Irish origin. However, it can also be spelled as Colleen, Coline, or Colleen. These variations maintain the same pronunciation but offer a slightly different aesthetic. Additionally, there are other variations derived from different languages. In French, the name can be spelled Coline and still carries the same meaning of "girl" or "young woman." In some Scandinavian countries, Coleen can be seen as Kolina or Kolin. These variations add a unique touch to the name, while still capturing its essence. Regardless of the spelling or variation, Coleen is a charming and timeless name that holds a special place in many hearts.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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