Kerrigan: Unveiling the Popularity and Allure of This Unique Name
The name Kerrigan possesses a certain strength and uncommon elegance that makes it a compelling choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughter. But how popular is the name Kerrigan, and what lies behind its appeal? Let’s delve into the history, popularity trends, and characteristics associated with Kerrigan to understand its enduring charm.
(Image of Kerrigan from the provided URL here)
Kerrigan Name Popularity: A Deep Dive
The question on many prospective parents’ minds is, "How popular is the name Kerrigan?" While not a ubiquitous name, Kerrigan has experienced fluctuations in popularity over the years, making it a unique choice that stands out from the more common names.
Analyzing data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), we can chart the historical usage of Kerrigan as a given name. The data reveals a fascinating trend:
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Early Years (1910-1994): The name Kerrigan was virtually absent from the SSA records during this period. This suggests that it was either extremely rare or simply not recorded as a given name during these years. This could be because it was used primarily as a surname, or perhaps variations of the name were more common.
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Emergence (1995): The name began to appear in the SSA records in 1995, ranking at 3,705 with 5 births, accounting for 0.0003% of all female births. This initial appearance suggests a rising interest in the name, possibly influenced by cultural or media factors.
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Peak Popularity (1996-2014): The late 1990s and early 2000s saw the name Kerrigan gaining traction. In 1996 it rose to 1,569 rank and 51 births. Though it remained relatively uncommon, it became a more visible choice. The name maintained a presence, hovering between ranks 1,400 and 2,800, indicating a consistent, albeit moderate, level of popularity.
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Recent Trends (2015-2023): Recent years show a continued presence for Kerrigan, with some fluctuation in rank and number of births. This suggests that while the name may not be skyrocketing in popularity, it maintains a loyal following of parents who appreciate its uniqueness. In 2022, the name ranked at 4,687 with 6 births.
Detailed Popularity Table (Based on Provided Data):
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1994 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1995 | 3,705 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1996 | 1,569 | 51 | 0.0034% |
| 1997 | 1,897 | 32 | 0.0022% |
| 1998 | 1,728 | 42 | 0.0028% |
| 1999 | 2,330 | 21 | 0.0014% |
| 2000 | 1,871 | 40 | 0.0026% |
| 2001 | 1,454 | 75 | 0.005% |
| 2002 | 1,668 | 55 | 0.0037% |
| 2003 | 1,996 | 37 | 0.0024% |
| 2004 | 2,389 | 23 | 0.0015% |
| 2005 | 2,145 | 32 | 0.0021% |
| 2006 | 2,156 | 34 | 0.0022% |
| 2007 | 2,565 | 21 | 0.0013% |
| 2008 | 2,803 | 15 | 0.001% |
| 2009 | 2,286 | 27 | 0.0018% |
| 2010 | 2,223 | 28 | 0.0019% |
| 2011 | 1,917 | 41 | 0.0029% |
| 2012 | 1,652 | 60 | 0.0042% |
| 2013 | 1,761 | 50 | 0.0035% |
| 2014 | 1,764 | 51 | 0.0035% |
| 2015 | 1,912 | 39 | 0.0027% |
| 2016 | 2,387 | 20 | 0.0014% |
| 2017 | 3,160 | 11 | 0.0008% |
| 2018 | 2,254 | 21 | 0.0015% |
| 2019 | 2,031 | 28 | 0.0021% |
| 2020-2021 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2022 | 4,687 | 6 | 0.0005% |
| 2023 | — | 0 | 0% |
The Meaning and Origins of Kerrigan
While popularity is a significant factor, understanding the meaning and origins of a name adds another layer of appreciation. Kerrigan is generally considered to be of Irish origin. It’s often derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Ciaragáin, meaning "descendant of Ciaragán." Ciaragán itself is a diminutive of the name Ciar, which translates to "dark" or "black-haired." Therefore, Kerrigan can be interpreted as "descendant of the dark-haired one."
This Irish heritage lends the name a sense of history and connection to a rich cultural tradition. The "dark" association might also be seen as conveying strength, mystery, or depth of character.
Names Like Kerrigan: Exploring Alternatives
If you’re drawn to Kerrigan but want to explore similar options, several names offer a comparable sound or feel.
Names That Sound Like Kerrigan:
- Georgeann
- Georgena
- Georgene
- Georgiana
- Georgina
- Georgine
- Georgyana
- Georgyann
Similar Names:
- Kerran (Danish)
- Kerridana (Irish)
- Kerrin (Irish)
These alternatives provide options that share either the "Kerr" sound or the Irish origin, allowing you to find a name that perfectly resonates with your preferences.
Siblings of Kerrigan: What Other Names Are Popular?
The provided data also offers insights into the names chosen by parents who have a child named Kerrigan. This can be helpful in understanding the overall naming style and preferences of families who favor Kerrigan.
- Freya
- Luca
This suggests that parents who choose Kerrigan often lean towards names that are either Scandinavian (Freya) or Italian (Luca).
The Enduring Appeal of Kerrigan
The name Kerrigan offers a blend of uniqueness, historical depth, and a touch of Irish charm. While its popularity has fluctuated, it remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name that stands out from the crowd. Its relatively uncommon nature, combined with its strong sound and intriguing meaning, makes Kerrigan a name with enduring appeal. Whether you’re drawn to its Irish roots, its unique sound, or its relative rarity, Kerrigan is a name that deserves consideration.