Origin and Meaning of Cillian

Meaning & Origin

Little church

Origin: Irish - The name Cillian is derived from the Irish word 'cill', meaning 'church', and is related to the name 'Killian'.

Interesting Facts

  • Cillian is a traditional Irish name that has gained popularity both in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora.
  • In Ireland, Cillian is commonly associated with Saint Killian, a 7th-century missionary who is the patron saint of Würzburg, Germany.
  • Prominent bearers of the name include Irish actor Cillian Murphy, known for his roles in 'Peaky Blinders' and 'Inception'.
  • The name Cillian has seen a rise in usage in the United States in recent years, reflecting a broader trend of parents favoring unique and traditional names.
  • Variations and related names include Killian (a more Anglicized version), and the similar sounding names Ciln or Kylian.