Long popular in Ireland and England, Kieran, the name of Ireland's first-born saint and twenty-five other saints, has been building its U.S. fan base. Strong and attractive, with a fashionable Irish brogue, its only drawback is possible confusion with such female choices as Karen and Kyra. While Ciaran is the more authentic Irish spelling, the anglicized Kieran will be easier for Americans to understand.

Kieran is rising rapidly in popularity--this year it went up 65 places to Number 475.

Julianna Margulies chose Kieran for her son, and Kieran is a Culkin brother to Macauley and Rory. Kier is an attractive short form, and Kiera/Keira is Kieran's girl twin.