Megan

girlWelsh

Megan is a girl name of Welsh origin, meaning “Pearl”.

MeaningPearl
GenderGirl
OriginWelsh
PronunciationMEG-un
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inWales, United Kingdom, United States, Australia

Meaning and origin of Megan

Megan is a Welsh pet form of Marged, the Welsh Margaret, which comes through Greek margarites, 'pearl'. For a long time it was a homely Welsh name, until it spread across the English-speaking world in the 1970s and 1980s. It was one of the most popular girls' names in Britain, Australia and America by the 1990s. Megan Rapinoe, the American footballer, is a famous modern bearer.

Is Megan a religious name?

Megan comes from Margaret, a saint's name, but as used today it is a Welsh heritage name with no particular religious meaning.

How popular is Megan?

Very popular in the 1990s; still widely used, though less so for newborns now.

Gifts with the name Megan

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Spellings and variants of Megan

MeghanMeaganMegMegane

Names similar to Megan

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Megan mean?

Megan means 'Pearl'. It is of Welsh origin.

Does Megan have a religious meaning?

Megan comes from Margaret, a saint's name, but as used today it is a Welsh heritage name with no particular religious meaning.

How do you pronounce Megan?

Megan is pronounced MEG-un.

Is Megan a boy or girl name?

Megan is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.