Declan
Declan is a boy name of Irish origin meaning “Full of goodness, man of prayer”, pronounced DEK-lin. It ranked #139 in the United States in 2025, given to 2,570 babies, and peaked at #95 in 2019. Common nicknames: Dec, Dex, Dee.
How popular is Declan in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Declan mean, and where does it come from?
Declan is an anglicized form of the Irish name Deaglán, whose exact etymology is debated but is often interpreted as meaning "full of goodness" or "man of prayer." The name is associated with Saint Declan of Ardmore, a 5th-century Irish saint who is said to have preceded Saint Patrick in bringing Christianity to Ireland. Saint Declan founded a monastery at Ardmore in County Waterford, which became an important center of learning. The name remained primarily Irish for centuries but has gained international popularity since the 2000s, particularly in the United States, where it entered the top 100 names. Declan's Celtic charm and strong sound have made it a favorite among parents seeking distinctive yet accessible names.
How is Declan used around the world?
Declan is used in 2 languages worldwide.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Declan?
Famous People Named Declan
- Declan Donnelly — British television presenter, one half of Ant & Dec
- Elvis Costello (born Declan MacManus) — English singer-songwriter and musician
- Declan Rice — English professional footballer
Similar Names to Declan
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Sibling Name Ideas for Declan
Looking for names that pair well with Declan? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Declan mean?
Declan is a boy name of Irish origin meaning "Full of goodness, man of prayer." Declan is an anglicized form of the Irish name Deaglán, whose exact etymology is debated but is often interpreted as meaning "full of goodness" or "man of prayer." The name is associated with Saint Declan of Ardmore, a 5th-century Irish saint who is said to have preceded Saint Patrick in bringing Christianity to Ireland.
How do you pronounce Declan?
Declan is pronounced DEK-lin. Common variations include Deaglán, Deklan, Declyn.
Is Declan a boy name?
Yes, Declan is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Dec, Dex, Dee.