Colin is a distinctive boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #1538 in 2025 with 17 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1997 with 79 births ranking #311. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 77.6%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 15,996 boys born was named Colin. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Colin is a long-established boys' name with a soft, classic sound. It has more than one historical route behind it, which is why exact literal meanings can vary a little across sources.
The name has been widely used in Scotland, Ireland, France, and England. Its international familiarity helps it feel classic without seeming heavy.