Kilian

Kilian is a masculine given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish name Cillín, meaning "little church" or "cell," and was Latinized as Kilianus. The name spread through Europe in the Middle Ages, especially in German-speaking regions, and is now used in many countries, sometimes with variant spellings such as Kilian, Killian, or Kylian.

Saint Kilian, also known as Killian of Würzburg, was an Irish missionary who evangelized in the region of Franconia in the 7th century. He is traditionally credited with founding the bishopric at Würzburg and was martyred there; his feast day is July 8. He remains a prominent figure in the local and Catholic hagiography of Bavaria, and he is regarded as a saint in various Christian traditions.

In modern times, Kilian is used as a male given name in Europe and North America. Notable bearers include Kilian Jornet Burgada, a Spanish trail runner and ski mountaineer known for world-class performances in ultra-distance events, and Kilian Hazard, a Belgian professional footballer.

Variants of the name include Killian and Kylian, the latter popularized by contemporary athletes in several countries. The name Kilian does not have a single, specific association beyond its historical and cultural usage.