Tiernan
Boy name · 51 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Tiernan: 51 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 7 births in 2025.
Derived from the Irish Gaelic *Tighearnán*, meaning “little lord” or “little master,” Tiernan entered the English-speaking world as an anglicised form of a name borne by several early Irish saints, most notably a 6th-century abbot of Clones. While firmly rooted in Irish tradition, it has found a natural home in Scotland, sharing a Celtic heritage and a gentle, noble feel. Notable bearers include Tiernan O’Halloran, the Irish broadcaster, and the medieval king Tiernan O’Rourke, whose feud with the Normans shaped Irish history. The name is a close cousin of the more common Tierney, and its rising popularity in modern Scotland reflects a broader appreciation for lyrical Gaelic names with a strong sense of heritage and warmth.
Boy 11 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 20257 babies
- Latest (2025)
- #4417 babies
- Total births
- 51since 2004
- 5-year trend
- ▲ 40%vs prior 5y