Morgan

/MOR-gan/

Welsh

Morgan is a Welsh baby name pronounced /MOR-gan/. The name traditionally translates to 'sea-born' or 'sea-circle'.

Meaning of Morgan

The name traditionally translates to 'sea-born' or 'sea-circle'.

It is derived from the Old Welsh masculine name Morcant. The name is composed of the elements 'mor', meaning sea, and 'cant', which can mean circle, rim, or song. In the female context, it is often associated with the Arthurian figure Morgan le Fay, whose name may also stem from the Irish Morrígan, a goddess of war.

Origin
Welsh
Pronunciation
/MOR-gan/

Cultural background

While historically a masculine name in Wales, it became a highly popular feminine name in the United States and Canada during the late 20th century.

Variations & nicknames

  • Morgana
  • Morgaine
  • Morgen
  • Morgyn
  • Morcant

Famous people named Morgan

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Morgan Freeman

    Academy Award-winning actor known for his deep, authoritative voice.

    Film · 20th-21st Century

  • Morgan le Fay

    Powerful enchantress and half-sister of King Arthur in Arthurian legend.

    Literature · Medieval

  • Morgan Tsvangirai

    Former Prime Minister of Zimbabwe and opposition leader.

    Politics · 20th-21st Century

  • Morgan Rielly

    Professional ice hockey defenseman and alternate captain.

    Sport · 21st Century

  • Morgan Fairchild

    American actress known for roles in television soap operas.

    Film · 20th-21st Century

  • Morgan Wallen

    American country music singer and songwriter.

    Music · 21st Century

Frequently asked about Morgan

Is Morgan a boy or girl name?
Morgan is a unisex name. In Wales, it is traditionally masculine, while in the United States, it is frequently used for both genders, though it became particularly popular for girls in the 1990s.
What does the name Morgan mean in Welsh?
It is generally interpreted as 'sea-circle' or 'sea-born', coming from the Welsh elements 'mor' (sea) and 'cant' (circle or boundary).
Is Morgan a surname or a first name?
It is common as both. It originated as a Welsh personal name but evolved into a frequent surname in Wales and the West of England before becoming a popular given name globally.

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