Meaning & History
Kegan is an English variant of the name Keegan. Keegan itself is an Anglicized form of the Irish Gaelic surname Mac Aodhagáin, derived from the personal name Aodhagán, a double diminutive of Aodh. The name Aodh comes from the Old Irish Áed, meaning "fire." This root name was borne by numerous figures in Irish mythology and several high kings of Ireland, and has traditionally been Anglicized as Hugh.
Thus, Kegan shares deep roots with the name Hugh, which has a separate Germanic origin meaning "mind, thought, spirit." The name Hugh was brought to England by the Normans and became common, partly due to the influence of Saint Hugh of Lincoln, a 12th-century bishop known for his charity. Kegan, as a variant of Keegan, emerged as a given name in English-speaking countries, likely influenced by the popularity of surnames as first names.
Although Kegan is traditionally masculine, it is sometimes used for girls as well. It is most common in the United States, United Kingdom, and other English-speaking regions. Notable bearers include Kegan Gerhard, a German DJ and record producer, and Kegan Hanks, an American baseball player.
- Meaning: Fire (via Aodh)
- Origin: Irish Gaelic, borrowed into English
- Type: Given name (variant of Keegan)
- Usage regions: English-speaking countries (especially USA, UK)