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Conan

Boy name · 186 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Conan: 186 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 11 births in 2014.

The name Conan is of Irish and Scottish Gaelic origin, deriving from "Conán," a diminutive of "cú" meaning "hound" or "wolf." This fierce animal symbolism suggests strength and loyalty. The most famous bearer is Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, author of the Sherlock Holmes stories, who famously used Conan as his middle name. Another prominent Conan is the American talk show host Conan O'Brien, whose Irish roots keep the name alive in popular culture. While there are no major places directly named after a Conan, the name shares its root with the Irish place names like Conamara (Connemara). A notable variant is the female form "Connie," though Conan remains almost exclusively male. Its ancient Celtic warrior associations give it a rugged, enduring charm that appeals to modern parents seeking a strong, short name with deep cultural roots.