Killian: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced KIL-ee-un · 3 syllables
Killian means “bright-headed; little church”, from Irish.
An anglicized spelling of Irish Cillian.
- Meaning
- bright-headed; little church
- Origin
- Irish
- Pronunciation
- KIL-ee-un
- US rank (2025)
- #417
- US babies a year
- about 895 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 2010
- Style
- Rising
How popular is Killian?
Killian was the #417 name in the US in 2025, given to 785 babies. It’s rising: up 80% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2010.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #417 |
| England & Wales | #625 |
| Scotland | #249 |
| Northern Ireland | #159 |
| Ireland | #140 |
| Canada | #403 |
| Australia | #352 |
How old are people named Killian?
Half of US adults named Killian are older than 26; most are between 18 and 37. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Killian
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
Questions about Killian
What does the name Killian mean?
Killian means “bright-headed; little church”. It comes from Irish.
How do you pronounce Killian?
Killian is pronounced KIL-ee-un.
How popular is the name Killian?
Killian was the #417 name in the US in 2025, given to 785 babies. It’s rising: up 80% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2010.
How old are people named Killian?
Half of US adults named Killian are older than 26. Most are between 18 and 37.