Coogan

Origins and Meaning

Coogan is an Irish surname that originated from the Gaelic name "MacCuagáin," meaning "son of Cuagán." The name Cuagán is a diminutive of the Old Irish word "cú," which means "hound."

Historical Significance

The Coogan surname is predominantly found in Ireland, particularly in areas with a strong Gaelic influence. The earliest recorded instances of the name date back to medieval times, indicating a long and distinguished history within Irish society.

Notable Individuals

One of the most famous bearers of the Coogan surname is the British actor, comedian, and producer, Steve Coogan. Steve Coogan is well-known for his work in film and television, particularly for his role as Alan Partridge, a beloved character in British comedy.

Variants and Derivatives

Over the years, variations of the Coogan surname have emerged, including Cogan and McCaughan. These variations reflect the linguistic evolution of the name as it has been passed down through generations.

Modern Distribution

While the Coogan surname is most commonly associated with Ireland, it has also spread to other parts of the world, including the United Kingdom. Today, individuals with the Coogan surname can be found in various countries, each contributing to the rich tapestry of their family history.

There are approximately 1,218 people named Coogan in the UK. That makes it roughly the 6,363rd most common surname in Britain. Around 19 in a million people in Britain are named Coogan.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Ireland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Joseph
  • Michael
  • Patrick
  • Paul
  • Stephen
  • Thomas

Female

  • Anne
  • Christine
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Frances
  • Janet
  • Julie
  • Margaret
  • Maria
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Sandra
  • Sarah

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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