Meaning, origin, history
Cavan is a unique and distinctive given name of Irish origin. The name is derived from the county of Cavan in Ireland, which is located in the province of Ulster. The county's name is believed to have come from the Irish word "cabhán," meaning "hollow" or "flat-topped hill."
The name Cavan has a rich history and cultural significance in Ireland. It is named after the ancient kingdom of Cenél nEógain, which was ruled by the O'Neills, one of the most powerful families in Irish history. The county town of Cavan is known for its historic buildings and landmarks, including Cavan Cathedral and the Anglo-Swiss Cottage.
Despite its Irish origins, Cavan is not a particularly common name in Ireland today. However, it has gained some popularity as a given name in other parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.
In recent years, there have been several notable figures with the name Cavan, including Cavan Scott, a British author known for his work on Doctor Who, and Cavan Biggs, an American football player who played for the Cincinnati Bengals. These individuals have helped to bring greater attention to the name Cavan and contribute to its growing popularity as a given name.
Overall, Cavan is a unique and distinctive name with a rich history and cultural significance in Ireland. While it may not be particularly common today, it remains an attractive choice for parents looking for a meaningful and memorable name for their child.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Cavan since 1880
Total births
1,656
Total since 1880
Peak year
2008
77 births
in 2023
30
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-22%
↘
vs previous 5 years