Ronan is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #215 in 2025 with 232 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1999 with 249 births ranking #139. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 121.0%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 1,172 boys born was named Ronan. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Ronan is an Irish favourite meaning little seal. It feels strong and modern in sound, but its root is gentle and distinctly Celtic.
The name has old Irish saintly and historical use and later became widely popular through the modern appetite for Irish names. Its balance of softness and strength has helped it endure.