Callahan

boyIrish

Callahan is an boy name of Irish origin, meaning “Descendant of Ceallachán”.

MeaningDescendant of Ceallachán
GenderBoy
OriginIrish
PronunciationKAL-uh-han
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, Ireland

Meaning and origin of Callahan

Callahan is an anglicised Irish surname, Ó Ceallacháin, 'descendant of Ceallachán'. That personal name is a diminutive of Ceallach, whose meaning is debated: it is explained either as 'bright-headed' or from ceallach 'strife, contention', and some link it to ceall 'church'. Ceallachán Caisil, a tenth-century king of Munster, was the ancestor of the family. Its use as a first name is a recent American habit.

Is Callahan a religious name?

Callahan is an Irish family name used as a first name, without any particular religious meaning.

How popular is Callahan?

Mainly a surname; occasionally used as a boys' first name in the United States.

Gifts with the name Callahan

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Spellings and variants of Callahan

CallaghanO'Callaghan

Names similar to Callahan

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Callahan mean?

Callahan means 'Descendant of Ceallachán'. It is of Irish origin.

Does Callahan have a religious meaning?

Callahan is an Irish family name used as a first name, without any particular religious meaning.

How do you pronounce Callahan?

Callahan is pronounced KAL-uh-han.

Is Callahan a boy or girl name?

Callahan is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.