Megan
Megan is a girl name of Welsh origin meaning “Pearl”, pronounced MEG-un. It ranked #889 in the United States in 2025, given to 301 babies, and peaked at #10 in 1985. Common nicknames: Meg, Meggie.
How popular is Megan 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 Megan mean, and where does it come from?
Megan is a Welsh diminutive of Margaret, meaning "pearl," formed by combining "Meg" with the Welsh diminutive suffix "-an." It remained largely confined to Wales until the mid-20th century, when it spread throughout England and then the United States, becoming enormously popular from the 1970s through the 1990s. The name has been carried by numerous notable women, including Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, whose alternate spelling has drawn global attention. Megan's crisp, cheerful sound and Welsh pedigree have secured its place as a beloved modern classic.
How is Megan used around the world?
Megan is used in 3 languages worldwide, with 7+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Megan?
Famous People Named Megan
- Meghan Markle — Duchess of Sussex and former actress
- Megan Thee Stallion — American rapper
- Megan Fox — American actress
Similar Names to Megan
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Sibling Name Ideas for Megan
Looking for names that pair well with Megan? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Megan mean?
Megan is a girl name of Welsh origin meaning "Pearl." Megan is a Welsh diminutive of Margaret, meaning "pearl," formed by combining "Meg" with the Welsh diminutive suffix "-an." It remained largely confined to Wales until the mid-20th century, when it spread throughout England and then the United States, becoming enormously popular from the 1970s through the 1990s.
How do you pronounce Megan?
Megan is pronounced MEG-un. Common variations include Meghan, Meagan, Meaghan.
Is Megan a girl name?
Yes, Megan is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Meg, Meggie.