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Regan Name Origin

Introduction

Choosing a name for your child is a big decision, and many parents look for names with a strong history and meaning. Regan is a popular name with Irish and Gaelic origins that has been growing in popularity in recent years. In this article, we will explore the history and meaning behind the name Regan, as well as its popularity and variations.

Regan Name Meaning

The name Regan has several possible meanings, depending on its origin. In Irish, the name means "little king" or "impulsive", while in Gaelic, it means "wise" or "courageous". The name is also associated with the character of Regan in Shakespeare's play King Lear, who is known for her cunning and ambition.

Regan Name History

The name Regan has a long history, dating back to ancient Ireland and Scotland. It was a popular name among the Celtic nobility, and was often given to sons of kings and chieftains. In the Middle Ages, the name became more common among the general population, and was often used as a surname. Today, it is a popular first name for both boys and girls.

Regan Name Popularity

The popularity of the name Regan has been on the rise in recent years, particularly in the United States. According to the Social Security Administration, the name was ranked #636 for girls in 2019, up from #719 in 2018. It has also been a popular name for boys, although it is less common. In Ireland, the name has been in use for centuries and remains a popular choice for both boys and girls.

Regan Name Variations

There are several variations of the name Regan, including Reagan, Ragan, and Raegan. These variations are often used interchangeably, although some people prefer one spelling over another. The name can also be combined with other names to create unique combinations, such as Regan Marie or Regan James.

Famous People Named Regan

There have been several famous people throughout history named Regan, including Regan Smith, an American NASCAR driver, and Regan Mizrahi, an American actor. The name has also been used in popular culture, such as in the TV show The Exorcist, where the main character is named Regan MacNeil.

Regan Name in Literature

The name Regan has been used in several works of literature, including Shakespeare's King Lear, where Regan is one of the king's daughters. In the novel The Exorcist, the main character is named Regan MacNeil, and in the book The Catcher in the Rye, the protagonist Holden Caulfield mentions a girl named Regan he met at a party.

Regan Name in Film and TV

The name Regan has been used in several films and TV shows, including The Exorcist, where the main character is named Regan MacNeil. In the TV show The Blacklist, one of the main characters is named Elizabeth Keen, but goes by the alias "Regan" in one episode. The name has also been used in several other TV shows and movies, often as a strong and independent female character.

Conclusion

Regan is a popular name with Irish and Gaelic origins that has a long history and several possible meanings. It has been growing in popularity in recent years, particularly in the United States, and has several variations and combinations. The name has been used in literature, film, and TV, and has been associated with strong and independent female characters. If you are considering the name Regan for your child, it is a unique and meaningful choice with a rich history and cultural significance.