Kilian is a name of Irish origin that means "disciple of Saint Kilian." Saint Kilian was an Irish missionary who lived in the 7th century and is said to have converted many people to Christianity throughout Europe. The name Kilian has been popular among Catholics due to its association with the saint, but it has also become increasingly popular as a secular name in recent years.
The name Kilian is believed to have originated from the Irish word "cilidh," which means "disciple." It is thought that Saint Kilian was given this name because he was a follower of Christ and dedicated his life to spreading the gospel throughout Europe. Throughout history, many people have been named Kilian in honor of the saint, and the name has continued to be passed down through generations.
Today, Kilian remains a popular name among Catholics, particularly those with Irish heritage or connections to Saint Kilian's missionary work. However, it has also gained popularity as a secular name in recent years, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. While some people may choose the name Kilian because of its association with the saint, others may simply appreciate its unique sound and meaning.
Overall, Kilian is a name with a rich history dating back to the early days of Christianity in Ireland. Its meaning as "disciple of Saint Kilian" reflects the values of faith, dedication, and devotion that have been associated with the name throughout the centuries. Whether chosen for religious or secular reasons, Kilian remains a strong and meaningful name with deep roots in Irish history.
The name Kilyan has been steadily gaining popularity in the United States over the past few years, with a significant increase in births recorded in recent years.
In 2015, there were only five babies named Kilyan born in the US. However, by 2017, this number had more than doubled to eleven births. The trend continued with eight births in both 2019 and 2020. After a slight dip in 2021 with five births, the popularity of the name Kilyan surged again in 2022 with ten births recorded.
Remarkably, the most recent data from 2023 shows that there were eighteen babies named Kilyan born in the United States, marking a significant peak in the popularity of this name. In total, since 2015, there have been sixty-five babies named Kilyan born in the US.
These statistics indicate that the name Kilyan is becoming more common and recognizable in American culture, with parents increasingly choosing this name for their newborns.