All about the name

Colean

Female

« Colean is an Irish given name derived from the surname O'Cleary, meaning "descendant of Cléirich", which translates to "bright-headed" or "fair-haired". »

#36163 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Colean is a unique and beautiful name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname "Ó Cléirigh" or "O'Cleary", which means "descendant of Cléirich". The name Cléirich comes from the Irish word "cléireach", meaning "bright-headed" or "fair-haired". The O'Cleary clan was a prominent family in Ireland, with roots tracing back to the 12th century. They were part of the Dé Danann, a mythical race of gods and heroes in Irish mythology. The O'Clearys were known for their scholarly pursuits and many of them held high-ranking positions within the Catholic Church. Over time, the surname O'Cleary was anglicized to Colean or Cleary. Today, it is still a recognizable name in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora around the world. In terms of its meaning, Colean carries the positive connotations associated with brightness and intelligence, reflecting the fair-haired ancestor that the name originally honored. It also bears the historical significance of its association with a renowned Irish family. Overall, Colean is a strong, distinctive name with a rich history and meaningful symbolism. Its unique sound and Irish heritage make it an attractive choice for parents looking for a memorable name for their child.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Colean since 1880

Total births
43
Total since 1880
Peak year
1921
8 births
in 1933
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years