When it comes to baby names, there are a multitude of options out there. From traditional and classic to trendy and unique, every parent wants to pick that perfect name for their little bundle of joy. One name that has been around for decades is Megan. So what does this popular moniker actually mean? Let's unravel the mystery behind the meaning of Megan.
Origins of Megan
To understand the meaning behind any given name, it's important to dive into its origins. In the case of Megan, it is derived from two different sources: Welsh and Irish.
Welsh Origin
The Welsh version of this name is "Meg" or "Megan", which means "pearl". This makes sense considering pearls have long been associated with beauty, purity and elegance - all fitting qualities for a lovely baby girl.
Irish Origin
However, in Ireland it means "brave warrior" (wowza!). It's hard not imagine Baby Megan entering this world ready for anything with her fists up swinging Wally Wood-style! Who knew such an innocently sounding baby name could have some serious kickass roots like those found amongst ancient Celtic warriors!
Popularity Through The Decades
While knowing where a name originates from can be interesting background information – let’s talk numbers because that's what really matters when we’re talking about meanings no? Throughout much of the 1980s and ‘90s – especially stateside as noted by Social Security Administration. Therefore depending on your age group; you may know multiple Megans throughout your homeland.
In fact according to BabyNames.com over 100k babies were born named “Megan” between 1971-1995. Now take note strong reader: If you're debating naming your upcoming bundle “Megan,” please know that while still a lovely name it is worth mentioning that the popularity of Meghan-Meghan/Megan/Cringing may have crested since the 80’s and early 90’s.
Famous Megans
It's always interesting to see how names can become associated with certain famous folks. In this case - there are many! Here are some of the most notable examples:
Megan Fox!
Perhaps one of the most popular people with this name in recent years is actress Megan Fox. Known for her roles in Transformers, Jennifer's Body, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – she has helped put more than just lipstick on this classic baby girls name.
| Year | Rank | Num Births |
|---|---|---|
| 1991 50 (0.359%) 9,461 | ||
| 1992 37 (0.476%) 10,742 | ||
| 1993 28 (0.623%) 13,541 |
But let us circle back very quickly to "Jennifer's Body" because that movie deserves its own article for... reasons. Strangely enough considering our age bracket here; but listen up Stacey! you should really do yourself a favor- look up this horrendously amazing cult film.
Other Megans Worth Mentioning
Other notable figures include singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor whose now iconic tune "All About That Bass" hit number one on the charts back in 2014 y'all; Princess Diana referred to as Lady Diana Spencer by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II which was her maiden surname meaning literally as “dispenser of provisions”; writer Megan Whalen Turner who wrote “The Thief” book series from HarperTeen Publishing being adapted into moving pictures only last year among others.
nicknames for megan?
One fun aspect during grade school or university was abbreviating or modifying your own name into some form of personalized goofiness. For instance Jason might go by Jay chill or Jase if the situation called for it, and let's not forget about “J-Dawg” right? So what options are there out there for Megans?
The Obvious Option
The most obvious option is Meg (which may sound pretty boring but we promise it could be endearing in person). A versatile nickname that offers no unnecessary distractions from that solid backbone with its echo through time.
Other Nicknames:
If you're looking to get a bit more creative, here are some others worth considering:
- Maggie
- Mimi
- May-May - Let’s just… cross this one off the list now k thanks.
- Mags Mahoney – honestly this sounds like something bartender would whip up on the next bachelorette party weekend girls trip.
Final Thoughts On Megan
In conclusion true believer, Megan is name steeped in history ranging anywhere from ‘one who was as precious as a pearl’ to figuratively speaking; squared fists ready for battle. It has become a staple within US popular culture originating from both Welsh and Irish roots although numbers have shown us popularity waning over recent years. All things considered though, still nonetheless an extremely lovely name indeed full of potential nick names and homage possible celebrity crushes!