Cillian is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #217 in 2025 with 230 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2024 with 285 births ranking #177. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 1,816.7%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 1,182 boys born was named Cillian. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Cillian is a well-loved Irish name with a soft, distinctive sound. It is often explained through church-related Gaelic roots, though exact older interpretations vary a little.
The name is familiar in Ireland through saints and tradition and has become far more visible internationally in recent years. Modern recognition has also grown through public figures such as Cillian Murphy.