Caelan

Caelan is a given name of Gaelic origin that is used in English-speaking countries. It is most commonly given to boys, but it is also used for girls in some communities, reflecting a broader trend toward gender diversity in names.

The name derives from the Irish Gaelic Caolán, meaning "slender" or "little one." The root caol- carries the sense of slenderness, and the diminutive suffix -án gives a sense of smallness or endearment, contributing to the modern usage as a personal name.

Variants and spellings include Caelan, Caelen, Kaelan, Kaelen, Keelan, and Kealan, among others. Pronunciations generally resemble "KAY-lən," but vowel quality and stress can vary by region and language.

Usage and popularity have grown since the late 20th century, with Caelan appearing in Ireland, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and the United States. The name is often chosen for its Gaelic heritage and contemporary sound, and its spellings align with a broader pattern of creative, nontraditional Anglicizations. While predominantly masculine in many contexts, Caelan is also encountered as a unisex option in some communities.

See also Caolán, the original Gaelic form from which Caelan is derived, and related names such as Caolan and Caelan variants used in Gaelic and English-speaking contexts. The name's flexibility and Gaelic connection contribute to its continued presence in modern naming practices.