Ciárán

Ciárán is a given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Old Irish word "ciar", meaning "dark" or "black". The name is often interpreted as "little dark one" or "little dark-haired one". It is a popular male given name in Ireland and among people of Irish descent worldwide. The spelling Ciárán is the most common in Ireland, though variations such as Kieran, Keiran, and Kieron are also found. The pronunciation typically involves a soft "c" sound followed by an "ee" sound, then an "ar" sound and finally an "awn" sound, though the exact pronunciation can vary. The name has a long history in Ireland, appearing in early Irish literature and mythology. Saint Ciaran of Clonmacnoise, a prominent Irish saint and one of the twelve apostles of Ireland, is a notable historical figure associated with the name. The name continues to be widely used in contemporary Irish society.