Nolan Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationNO-lan / /ˈnoʊ.lən/Irish; Gaelic
Meaning
Irish: noble; Gaelic: champion
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Nolan has its roots in the Irish language, derived from the Gaelic surname "Ó Nualláin," which means "descendant of Nuallan." The personal name Nuallan itself is derived from the word "nuall," meaning "noble" or "famous." This etymological lineage highlights the name's association with nobility and distinction. The transition of Nolan into English occurred through the anglicization of Irish surnames, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries as Irish families migrated or were displaced, bringing their names into broader English-speaking contexts.
Historically, the name Nolan has been borne by various notable figures, particularly in Ireland. One significant milestone is the presence of the name in the annals of Irish history, where members of the Ó Nualláin clan were known as poets and scholars during the medieval period. The name appears in various historical texts, including the Annals of the Four Masters, a chronicle of medieval Irish history compiled in the 17th century. Additionally, the name has been associated with several saints, further embedding it within the cultural and religious fabric of Ireland.
Culturally, the name Nolan carries connotations of strength and honor, resonating with the ideals of nobility and leadership. It has been embraced in various forms of literature and folklore, often symbolizing a character of integrity or valor. The name has also seen adaptations in diminutive forms, such as Noll, which have been used affectionately in familial contexts. Overall, the name Nolan reflects a rich historical and cultural heritage, embodying qualities that have allowed it to endure through the centuries.
Trend Summary
Nolan has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past few decades.
Similar Names
Variants
- Nolen
- Nollan
International Variants
- Noé (French)
- Nolán (Spanish)
Famous people named Nolan
Nolan Ryan is a former professional baseball player best known for his time with the Texas Rangers, New York Mets, and California Angels.
Nolan North is a voice actor best known for his work in the Uncharted series, Assassin's Creed, and Destiny.
Nolan Gerard Funk is an actor and singer best known for his roles in The Canyons, Glee, and the television series Awkward.
Fictional characters named Nolan
Nolan is a fictional character from the video game series Batman: Arkham. He is a key figure in the narrative, often associated with the themes of justice and morality within Gotham City.
Nolan is a fictional character from the film Inception. He is a skilled architect who plays a crucial role in the complex heist involving dreams and subconscious manipulation.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Nolan was first seen in the United States in 1881. Nolan has ranked as high as #105 nationally, which occurred in 2015, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Illinois, Ohio, and Michigan. In the past 5 years the name Nolan has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Nolan (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 439 | |
TX | 420 | |
FL | 261 | |
NY | 256 | |
PA | 233 | |
OH | 221 | |
NC | 183 | |
GA | 181 | |
IL | 164 | |
VA | 159 | |
TN | 130 | |
MI | 124 | |
MN | 124 | |
MA | 120 | |
WI | 114 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1881 | 5 |
1884 | 7 |
1886 | 5 |
1887 | 9 |
1889 | 5 |
1892 | 10 |
1893 | 9 |
1894 | 12 |
1895 | 8 |
1896 | 9 |
1897 | 12 |
1898 | 5 |
1899 | 10 |
1900 | 16 |
1901 | 11 |
1902 | 15 |
1903 | 10 |
1904 | 18 |
1905 | 17 |
1906 | 20 |
1907 | 23 |
1908 | 16 |
1909 | 28 |
1910 | 31 |
1911 | 32 |
1912 | 62 |
1913 | 90 |
1914 | 108 |
1915 | 118 |
1916 | 150 |
1917 | 149 |
1918 | 132 |
1919 | 149 |
1920 | 157 |
1921 | 191 |
1922 | 183 |
1923 | 177 |
1924 | 164 |
1925 | 161 |
1926 | 168 |
1927 | 174 |
1928 | 157 |
1929 | 142 |
1930 | 180 |
1931 | 156 |
1932 | 190 |
1933 | 167 |
1934 | 189 |
1935 | 188 |
1936 | 166 |
1937 | 183 |
1938 | 198 |
1939 | 205 |
1940 | 221 |
1941 | 176 |
1942 | 192 |
1943 | 207 |
1944 | 207 |
1945 | 174 |
1946 | 192 |
1947 | 198 |
1948 | 218 |
1949 | 219 |
1950 | 215 |
1951 | 189 |
1952 | 214 |
1953 | 190 |
1954 | 203 |
1955 | 199 |
1956 | 198 |
1957 | 185 |
1958 | 182 |
1959 | 185 |
1960 | 166 |
1961 | 165 |
1962 | 141 |
1963 | 154 |
1964 | 164 |
1965 | 112 |
1966 | 161 |
1967 | 126 |
1968 | 146 |
1969 | 158 |
1970 | 180 |
1971 | 199 |
1972 | 145 |
1973 | 175 |
1974 | 167 |
1975 | 201 |
1976 | 202 |
1977 | 218 |
1978 | 257 |
1979 | 262 |
1980 | 329 |
1981 | 395 |
1982 | 423 |
1983 | 449 |
1984 | 520 |
1985 | 478 |
1986 | 479 |
1987 | 480 |
1988 | 509 |
1989 | 617 |
1990 | 846 |
1991 | 1,054 |
1992 | 1,164 |
1993 | 1,143 |
1994 | 1,112 |
1995 | 1,066 |
1996 | 1,106 |
1997 | 1,311 |
1998 | 1,365 |
1999 | 1,623 |
2000 | 2,026 |
2001 | 2,093 |
2002 | 2,232 |
2003 | 2,217 |
2004 | 2,489 |
2005 | 2,718 |
2006 | 2,839 |
2007 | 3,171 |
2008 | 3,150 |
2009 | 3,437 |
2010 | 3,689 |
2011 | 4,168 |
2012 | 4,426 |
2013 | 4,745 |
2014 | 5,210 |
2015 | 5,739 |
2016 | 5,634 |
2017 | 5,399 |
2018 | 5,628 |
2019 | 5,400 |
2020 | 5,198 |
2021 | 5,352 |
2022 | 4,924 |
2023 | 5,123 |
2024 | 4,888 |