Declining since 2008, #12,008 for boys today.
Popularity of Arran since 1973
Babies named Arran per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 7 |
| 1980s | 22 |
| 1990s | 62 |
| 2000s | 87 |
| 2010s | 83 |
| 2020s | 23 |
Meaning & origin
Arran is a distinctive Scottish name tied to the rugged Isle of Arran, first recorded as a given name in the United States in 1973. It reached its highest popularity in 2008, but has since been in decline, falling from that peak in rank and usage. Despite its rarity (rank 12,008 in 2025, with about 1 in 341,615 newborns), Arran carries a strong geographical and cultural resonance for those with Scottish heritage. No top states were recorded for this name, reflecting its infrequent use across the country. Its simple, masculine sound and connection to a place of natural beauty give it a quiet, enduring appeal.
Arran is predominantly a Scottish name, taken from the Isle of Arran in the Firth of Clyde. The island's name itself is of pre-Celtic origin and its meaning is unknown. As a given name, Arran first appeared in the late 20th century, likely inspired by the island or the surname associated with it.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Arry
Sibling names for Arran
Names that share Arran's style, for a brother or sister.
