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Sullivan Unisex

Popularity: #319 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationSUL-ih-vən / ˈsʌlɪvən

Irish; Gaelic

Meaning

Irish: 'dark-eyed'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Sullivan has its roots in the Irish language, derived from the Gaelic surname "O'Suileabhain," which means "descendant of Suileabhain." The name Suileabhain itself is believed to be composed of the elements "súil," meaning "eye," and "abhain," meaning "river" or "stream." This etymological background suggests a connection to natural features, possibly indicating a person with keen observation or a notable presence near a river. The surname was anglicized to Sullivan as it entered the English language, particularly during the period of English colonization in Ireland from the 16th century onward.

Historically, the name Sullivan is associated with various notable figures in Irish history. One prominent bearer was the 17th-century Irish general and politician, Hugh O'Sullivan, who played a significant role during the Nine Years' War against English rule. Additionally, the name appears in various historical texts and records, including the Annals of the Four Masters, a chronicle of medieval Irish history compiled in the 17th century. The name gained further recognition through its association with several saints, particularly Saint Sullivan, who is venerated in some Irish traditions.

Culturally, the name Sullivan carries connotations of strength and resilience, reflective of the Irish spirit. It has been embraced in various forms of literature and folklore, often symbolizing loyalty and kinship. The name has also been linked to the concept of the "Sullivan clan," which represents a broader familial and cultural identity among those of Irish descent. The diminutive form "Sully" has emerged as a familiar variant, though its usage is more contemporary. Overall, the name Sullivan encapsulates a rich tapestry of linguistic heritage, historical significance, and cultural resonance that has endured through the centuries.

Trend Summary

Sullivan has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past two decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Sully

International Variants

  • Sullivan (Irish)
  • Sullivan (English)

Famous people named Sullivan

Sullivan Stapleton is an actor best known for Strike Back, 300: Rise of an Empire, and Animal Kingdom.

Sullivan Ballou was a soldier best known for his poignant letter written to his wife before the First Battle of Bull Run.

Fictional characters named Sullivan

Sullivan is a fictional character from the animated film Monsters, Inc. He is a large, blue monster who works as a top scarer and is known for his friendly demeanor and protective nature towards his best friend, Mike Wazowski.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Sullivan was first seen in the United States in 1884. Sullivan has ranked as high as #570 nationally, which occurred in 2024, and has been most popular in Minnesota, Ohio, California, Michigan, and Wisconsin. In the past 5 years the name Sullivan has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Sullivan (2024)

StateBirthsShare
OH 65
7%
WI 52
6%
PA 50
5%
IL 45
5%
NC 44
5%
MN 44
5%
MI 43
5%
NY 42
4%
SC 42
4%
TX 41
4%
IN 40
4%
GA 32
3%
TN 31
3%
IA 29
3%
VA 29
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18847
18865
18888
188910
189010
18918
189211
18935
18947
18966
18987
18999
190010
19106
19119
191211
19139
191412
191510
191613
191718
191818
191916
192015
192114
192217
192315
192415
192519
192612
192717
19287
192910
19309
193113
193215
193310
193413
19358
193616
19378
19387
193911
19408
19419
19438
194411
194516
194620
194711
194815
194916
195011
195115
195218
195312
195414
195515
19568
195717
19589
195910
196010
19616
19626
19639
19648
196515
19667
19677
19689
19698
197011
19719
197211
19736
19748
197510
19769
19778
19787
19797
19809
198110
19828
198311
19847
19855
19869
198810
198914
199026
199130
199234
199352
199432
199558
199667
199769
199886
199981
200085
2001124
2002159
2003171
2004177
2005190
2006203
2007314
2008332
2009380
2010371
2011488
2012548
2013540
2014634
2015667
2016783
2017797
2018822
2019778
2020769
2021876
2022901
2023918
20241,011