Callahan

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Callahan

Gender Boy
Origin Celtic
Letters 8
Syllables 3
Pronunciation kuh-LUH-han

Callahan, which has 8 letters and 3 syllables, is a male name of Celtic origin.

Meaning of Callahan

Saint

Callahan is an Irish surname derived from the Gaelic phrase “ceallachán”, which means “strife”, “contention”, or “warlike”. It can also be interpreted to mean “bright-headed” or “wise”.

Save
Rate:
(2.8/5 from 5 votes)
Meaning Saint
Origin Celtic
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #363 in 2024 Rising Fast
Rarity (US) Uncommon (Top 500)
Era Modern (peaked 2024)

Background & History of The Name Callahan

Callahan

The name Callahan is of Irish origin and has a deep-rooted history. It originated from the Gaelic name Ó Ceallacháin, meaning "descendant of Ceallachán". The name Ceallachán is derived from the word "ceallach," which translates to "strife" or "contention" in Irish. As such, the name Callahan is associated with strength, determination, and the ability to overcome obstacles.

In Ireland, the surname Callahan is predominantly found in County Cork. The Callahan family played a notable role in Irish history, with prominent figures emerging from their ranks. One such figure was Edmund O'Callaghan, a distinguished Irish-American journalist and historian who contributed significantly to the study of Irish immigration in the United States during the 19th century.

Over the years, the name Callahan has spread beyond Ireland and gained popularity in various English-speaking countries, especially in the United States. Its strong and melodic sound has attracted many parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their children. The name Callahan often carries connotations of bravery and leadership, making it a popular choice for fictional characters in literature and films.

Individuals with the name Callahan are often described as intelligent, confident, and charismatic. They possess excellent communication skills and have a natural ability to inspire and motivate others. Callahans are known for their strong work ethic and determination to succeed in their endeavors.

Overall, the name Callahan holds a rich heritage and carries a sense of strength and resilience. With its Irish origins and positive associations, it continues to be a beloved choice for many families seeking a meaningful name with a touch of Celtic charm.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Callahan over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials Callahan would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Callahan.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names