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Declan Boy

Popularity: #127 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: DEK-lan //ˈdɛklən//

Origin: Irish; Latin

Meaning: Irish: 'full of goodness'; Latin: 'from the place of the monks'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Declan has its roots in the Irish language, derived from the Gaelic name "Deaglán," which is believed to mean "full of goodness" or "man of prayer." The etymology traces back to the early medieval period in Ireland, where the name was associated with St. Declan of Ardmore, a prominent figure in Irish Christianity who is thought to have lived in the 5th century.

St. Declan is credited with establishing one of the earliest Christian communities in Ireland, predating the arrival of St.

Patrick. His legacy contributed to the name's significance in Irish culture and its association with piety and virtue.

Throughout the centuries, the name Declan has appeared in various historical texts and records, particularly in connection with the spread of Christianity in Ireland. The name gained further prominence during the Middle Ages, as it was borne by several notable figures, including Irish saints and local leaders.

The name's association with St. Declan helped solidify its place in Irish heritage, and it was often used in religious contexts, reflecting the cultural importance of saints in Irish society.

In addition to its religious connotations, the name Declan has resonated culturally as a symbol of Irish identity. It has been celebrated in literature and folklore, often representing qualities such as strength and devotion.

The name has also inspired various diminutive forms, such as "Dec" or "Deke," which have been used affectionately in familial and social contexts. Overall, Declan's historical roots and cultural significance have contributed to its enduring presence in Irish tradition.

Famous people named Declan

Declan Donnelly is a television presenter best known for Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway, I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!, and Britain's Got Talent.
Declan Rice is a professional footballer best known for playing as a midfielder for West Ham United and the England national team.

Fictional characters named Declan

Declan is a fictional character from the TV series The Good Doctor. He is a surgical resident who navigates the challenges of working in a high-pressure hospital environment.

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U.S. Historical Usage

The name Declan was first seen in the United States in 1951. Declan has ranked as high as #152 nationally, which occurred in 2019, and has been most popular in California, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Declan has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Declan (2024)

State Births Share
CA 178
7%
TX 177
7%
NY 174
7%
PA 159
6%
FL 143
6%
OH 111
4%
MI 110
4%
IL 102
4%
NC 98
4%
VA 95
4%
MA 86
3%
WI 70
3%
IN 69
3%
GA 69
3%
WA 66
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19515
19556
19565
19576
19595
19607
19615
19625
196310
19647
19657
19665
19677
19688
19699
197011
19716
19749
19759
19767
19776
19786
19806
198110
198213
198310
19848
198515
198612
198714
198822
198934
199037
199133
199244
199349
199466
199592
1996105
1997124
1998234
1999351
2000388
2001531
2002562
2003611
2004606
2005842
2006817
2007923
2008942
20091,046
20101,257
20112,169
20122,780
20133,116
20143,321
20153,587
20163,622
20173,469
20183,812
20193,971
20203,601
20213,646
20223,344
20232,814
20242,758