Egan is a name of Irish origin, derived from the ancient Gaelic surname "Ó hÉiginn." This surname comes from the Old Norse given name "Agmundr," which means "protection power." The name was brought to Ireland by Viking settlers and has been associated with the Egan clan for centuries.
The Egan family is believed to have originated in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. According to Irish tradition, the Egans were a distinguished and influential clan, known for their bravery and intelligence. They played an important role in Irish history, particularly during the Middle Ages.
Over time, the name Egan has evolved and been anglicized in various ways. Some variations of the name include Agan, Eakin, Ogin, and Hegan. Despite these changes, the original meaning and Irish origins remain the same.
In literature and popular culture, several notable characters have borne the name Egan. One of the most famous is Daniel Egan, a character in James Joyce's novel "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man." Additionally, the name has been used in various films and television shows, further increasing its popularity and recognition.
Today, Egan remains a distinctive and appealing name choice for parents seeking an Irish-inspired moniker with a rich history. Its meaning, "protection power," adds depth and significance to this handsome name.
The name Egan has seen a varied level of popularity over the years in the United States. In the period from 1984 to 1989, there were a total of 49 babies named Egan. The highest number of births occurred in 1985 with 9 babies, while the lowest was in 2002 with just 5 births. Interestingly, the name has not been among the top 1000 most popular names for boys since at least 2007, according to data from the Social Security Administration. This suggests that Egan is a unique and less common name, which might appeal to parents looking for something distinctive for their child. Despite its fluctuating popularity, the name Egan has maintained a steady presence in the United States with an average of about 5 births per year between 1984 and 2002.