Declining since 2011, #6,803 for boys today.
Popularity of Keane since 1950
Babies named Keane per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 28 |
| 1960s | 49 |
| 1970s | 108 |
| 1980s | 170 |
| 1990s | 310 |
| 2000s | 344 |
| 2010s | 380 |
| 2020s | 97 |
Meaning & origin
Keane, an Irish surname turned first name, has a steady but uncommon presence in U.S. birth records. It first appeared in 1950 and reached its peak popularity in 2012. Since 2011, its usage has been on a gradual decline. In 2025, it ranked 6,803rd, with approximately 1 in 142,340 babies named Keane. The name carries the meaning 'little warrior' and is most popular in states with strong Irish heritage. Its clean, strong sound and single syllable make it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with Celtic roots.
Keane is an anglicized form of the Irish surname Ó Catháin, meaning 'descendant of Cathán'. The personal name Cathán is a diminutive of cath, meaning 'battle'. The surname originated in County Limerick and County Clare, and has been used as a given name since the 20th century.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: K
Sibling names for Keane
Names that share Keane's style, for a brother or sister.
