Origin and Meaning of Coleman

A descendant of the dark-skinned one, or a scholar.

Origin: English - Derived from the Old English personal name 'Cola' combined with the suffix '-man,' meaning 'man of Cola' or 'son of Cola.'

• Coleman was originally a surname that has transitioned into a first name, especially in English-speaking countries.
• It is quite popular in the United States, particularly among families with Irish ancestry, due to its connections with Gaelic names.
• Notable bearers include Coleman Hawkins, a famous American jazz musician, and Coleman Young, the first African American mayor of Detroit.
• The name has seen a steady increase in popularity over the past few decades, ranking higher in the 21st century compared to the late 20th century.
• Variations of the name include Colman and Collin, with Colman being more commonly used in Ireland.