Origin and Meaning of Killian

Meaning & Origin

Little or Small; War or Strife

Origin: Irish - Derived from the Irish name Cillian, which is derived from the Latin word 'cill', meaning 'church', and 'cillín', meaning 'little church'.

Interesting Facts

  • Killian is often associated with Saint Cillian (also known as Saint Kilian), who was an Irish missionary and martyr.
  • The name is popular in Ireland and has seen increasing popularity in English-speaking countries over the last few decades.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Killian Scott, an Irish actor known for his roles in popular television series.
  • In recent years, Killian has gained traction in the United States as a modern and strong name choice, often used by parents looking for unique alternatives to traditional names.
  • Variations of Killian include Cillian, Kylian, and Kilian, each maintaining a connection to its Irish roots.