Meahan is a unique and distinctive name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname "Ó Méithín," which is believed to have been anglicized over time to Meegan, Mageean, or even Meahan.
The original Gaelic form of the name, Ó Méithín, is thought to mean "descendant of the middle one" or "the middle one." This likely refers to a person who was born between two siblings, either in terms of age or birth order. However, it's important to note that this etymology is not universally agreed upon and may vary depending on the source.
The history of the name Meahan is intertwined with the story of the Ó Méithín sept, a Irish clan that was prominent during the Middle Ages. The clan originated from County Roscommon in Ireland, where they were known as one of the "four tribes of Tara." Over time, members of the clan spread throughout Ireland and even to other parts of Europe, taking their name with them.
Today, Meahan remains a relatively rare name, but it has been carried by people of Irish descent for centuries. It is often used as both a given name and a surname, though its usage is more prevalent in Ireland than elsewhere around the world. Despite its rarity, the name Meahan stands out due to its unique sound and its rich historical background rooted in Irish culture.
The name Meahan has been used quite infrequently, with only seven babies being named Meahan across the United States over the years. In fact, the peak year for its usage was back in 1986 when it appeared on seven birth certificates nationwide. Despite this limited popularity, each of these individuals carries a unique and distinctive name that sets them apart from many others.