Calahan is a name of Irish origin, derived from the ancient Gaelic word "Cailleach," which means "old woman" or "hag." Despite its seemingly unappealing origins, Calahan has been used as a given name for both boys and girls in Ireland for centuries.
The name Calahan was popular among early medieval Irish clans, particularly among the O'Keeffe family. According to legend, one of the first people to bear the name Calahan was a brave warrior who fought against English invaders during the 12th century. This Calahan is said to have been a fearless fighter who inspired his fellow countrymen to stand up against oppression.
While the meaning of Calahan may not be as pleasant as some other names, its historical significance and unique sound make it an appealing choice for parents looking for something different. Today, Calahan remains a rare but memorable name that is most commonly found in Ireland and among Irish families living abroad.
In terms of popularity, Calahan has never been particularly common. According to the Social Security Administration's list of popular baby names in the United States, Calahan has not made an appearance since record-keeping began in 1960. However, this lack of mainstream popularity may be part of its appeal for parents who wish to give their child a distinctive and meaningful name with a rich history behind it.
Overall, Calahan is an intriguing name with roots deep in Irish history and culture. Despite its origins, the name has become synonymous with bravery and resilience, qualities that have been embodied by those who bear this unique moniker throughout the centuries.
The name Calhan has seen a recent upsurge in popularity in the United States, with an increase from 6 births in 2020 to 11 births in 2022. However, it's not always been on the rise. In fact, there was a decrease from 7 births in 2015 to just 6 births in 2020. Despite this fluctuation, over time, Calhan has still proven to be a popular choice among parents, with a total of 24 births recorded in the United States since 2015. It will be interesting to see if this trend continues and whether or not we'll see more babies named Calhan in the coming years.