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Caelan

Boy / Girl name · 556 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Caelan: 556 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to both boys and girls, peaking at 43 births in 2021.

Caelan is a modern Scottish and Irish name, typically derived from the Gaelic *Caolán*, a diminutive of *caol* meaning "slender" or "narrow." It can also be seen as a variant of the Irish name Caolan, associated with several early Irish saints. A notable bearer is Ireland rugby star Caelan Doris, known for his powerful presence on the pitch. While no major places share the name directly, the root *caol* appears in Scottish place names like Caol in Lochaber. Interestingly, Caelan has surged in popularity across Scotland since the 1990s, often spelled Cailean or Kaelan, and remains a favourite for parents drawn to its melodic, modern Celtic feel.