Last Name Kieran

The last name Kieran is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name "Ciarán", meaning "little dark one" or "black-haired". It is a popular surname in Ireland and is often found in counties such as Kerry and Galway. The name is also associated with Saint Ciarán of Clonmacnoise, an important figure in early Irish Christianity.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Kieran

The meaning and origin of the last name Kieran

The surname Kieran is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic personal name "Ciaran", meaning "little dark one" or "little dark-haired one". The name is believed to have been popularized by the 6th-century Saint Ciaran of Clonmacnoise, a revered Irish monk and one of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland. The name is common in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora. The Kieran surname is found in various spellings such as Keiran, Kirwan, Kieron, and O'Kieran, with variations in different regions and among different branches of the family. Today, individuals with the surname Kieran can be found across the globe, particularly in countries with a significant Irish population such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Geographical distribution of the last name Kieran

The last name Kieran is primarily found in Ireland, with a significant concentration in the province of Munster. It is believed to have originated from the Gaelic personal name Ciarán, meaning "little dark one" or "black haired." The surname is also prevalent in other English-speaking countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, often as a result of Irish immigration. Within the United States, the states with the highest population of individuals with the last name Kieran include New York, California, and Illinois. Overall, Kieran is considered a relatively rare surname compared to more common Irish surnames like O'Connor or Murphy, but it still holds significance within Irish and Irish-American communities.

Variants and spellings of the last name Kieran

The last name Kieran can be spelled in various ways including Kieren, Keiran, Kiernan, and Kiran. These variations may be due to different regions or dialects, as well as changes over time in how the name was recorded or transcribed. The name Kieran originates from Irish Gaelic and is derived from the word "ciar" which means dark or black, referring to someone with dark hair or complexion. Over the years, the spelling of the name has evolved to reflect different pronunciations and interpretations. Regardless of the spelling, Kieran and its variations continue to be a popular surname in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora around the world. Each spelling variation may carry its own unique story and connection to a family's heritage and ancestry.

Famous people with the last name Kieran

There are no widely known famous individuals with the last name Kieran. The name Kieran is a relatively uncommon surname and is more commonly used as a given name. However, there are some notable individuals with the first name Kieran who have made their mark in various fields. One such person is Kieran Culkin, an American actor known for his roles in films such as "Home Alone" and "Igby Goes Down." Another notable figure is Kieran Gibbs, an English professional footballer who has played for clubs like Arsenal and West Bromwich Albion. While there may not be many famous individuals with the last name Kieran, those with the first name have certainly achieved success and recognition in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Kieran

The surname Kieran is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic personal name "Ciaran" meaning "little dark one" or "black". The name can be traced back to ancient Celtic roots and is associated with the patron saint of Ossory in Ireland. The Kieran family has a long history in Ireland, particularly in County Kilkenny where they were prominent landowners and held positions of authority. Over time, the name has spread to other parts of the world, particularly to the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Genealogical research on the Kieran surname may reveal connections to notable individuals in Irish history as well as insights into the migration patterns of Irish immigrants. Today, individuals with the surname Kieran can be found in various professions and industries, continuing the legacy of their ancestors.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "kieran"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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

Share the origin of your last name with your friends