← All names

Broghan

Girl name · 32 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Broghan: 32 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 4 births in 2000.

Broghan is a modern variant of the Irish name Brogan, which itself comes from the Old Gaelic *Brógán*, a diminutive of *bróg* meaning "shoe" or "sandal"—so the name literally means "little shoe." It likely originated as a nickname for a cobbler or someone who wore distinctive footwear. Though less historically common than Brogan, the name has gained modest use in Scotland since the early 2000s. One notable bearer is Broghan Beaton, a contemporary Scottish footballer who played for clubs like Stenhousemuir and Stirling Albion. The root *bróg* also appears in the Irish town of Brú na Bóinne, though not directly linked. Broghan remains a rare but distinctive choice, carrying a down-to-earth occupational heritage with a modern twist.