MyNameList

    Colin

    Also spelled: Cailean, Collin

    Pronunciation: KAW-lin

    ♂ Male
    Gaelic, Greek

    Meaning

    cub, or a diminutive of Nicholas (people's victory)

    Origin

    Gaelic, Greek

    About Colin

    Colin carries a wonderfully grounded and approachable feel, a name that’s both classic and comfortably contemporary. Its dual heritage, stemming from a Gaelic term meaning "cub" and also serving as a delightful diminutive of Nicholas ("people's victory"), gives it a unique blend of strength and charm. It’s a choice for parents who appreciate a name that feels familiar and friendly without being overly common, yet still offers a subtle depth of history. Unlike many short, classic names, Colin manages to convey both a boyish playfulness and a sturdy, reliable character, making it a name that truly grows with its bearer.

    Quick Facts

    - Origin: Gaelic, Greek - Nicknames: Cailean, Collin - Popular in: United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia

    Popularity & Trends

    Rarity:
    Common
    Trend:Stable
    Peak decade:1970s
    Era:Medieval, Contemporary
    Popular in:United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia

    Popularity Trends

    Is Colin Right for Your Baby?

    Colin is a Classic, Friendly, Strong name for boys that suits parents looking for something classic and well-established. It works well internationally and is easy to recognise across cultures. Most people will pronounce it correctly on the first try.

    Syllables2
    LengthMedium
    International UseGlobal
    PronunciationEasy

    Regions Where Colin Is Used

    Scottish
    Irish
    British

    Name Vibe

    Classic
    Friendly
    Strong

    Famous People Named Colin

    • Colin Firth, English actor
    • Colin Farrell, Irish actor
    • Colin Powell, American statesman and general
    • Colin Kaepernick, American football player and activist
    • Colin Montgomerie, Scottish golfer

    Nicknames & Short Forms

    Col

    Colin in different fonts

    ColinDancing Script
    ColinCaveat
    ColinSatisfy
    ColinPacifico
    ColinGreat Vibes

    Sibling Name Style

    If you like Colin, you might also like names with these styles:

    Classic
    Traditional

    Related Names

    Found in these lists

    Frequently Asked Questions About Colin

    What are the origins of the name Colin?

    Colin has a dual origin, coming from a Gaelic term meaning "cub" and also serving as a diminutive of the Greek name Nicholas, meaning "people's victory."

    Is Colin a popular name today?

    Yes, Colin remains a popular choice in several English-speaking countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.

    What does Colin mean?

    Colin means "cub, or a diminutive of Nicholas (people's victory)". It is derived from Gaelic, Greek.

    What is the origin of Colin?

    Colin originates from Gaelic, Greek. Its cultural origin is Gaelic, Greek.

    Is Colin a male or female name?

    Colin is a male name.

    How do you pronounce Colin?

    Colin is pronounced "KAW-lin".

    What language does Colin come from?

    Colin comes from Gaelic, Greek.

    Is Colin a popular name?

    Colin is considered a common name, and its popularity trend is stable.

    What are variants of Colin?

    Variants of Colin include Cailean, Collin.

    What are nicknames for Colin?

    Common nicknames for Colin include Col.

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