Reagan

/RAY-gun/

Irish

Reagan is an Irish baby name pronounced /RAY-gun/. This name literally translates to 'little ruler' or 'descendant of Riagán'.

Meaning of Reagan

This name literally translates to 'little ruler' or 'descendant of Riagán'.

It is derived from the Irish surname Ó Riagáin, which stems from the word 'rí', meaning king, combined with the diminutive suffix '-án'. Historically, it was associated with the Uí Riagáin, one of the four tribes of Tara in ancient Ireland. While originally a surname, it transitioned into a popular given name in the 20th century.

Origin
Irish
Pronunciation
/RAY-gun/

Cultural background

The name is widely used in the United States and Canada, often chosen for both boys and girls, though it has leaned more feminine in recent decades. It gained significant visibility due to the political legacy of U.S. President Ronald Reagan.

Variations & nicknames

  • Regan
  • Reagen
  • Raegan
  • Reaghan
  • Rheagan
  • Ray

Famous people named Reagan

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

  • Reagan Gomez-Preston

    American actress known for The Parent 'Hood

    Film · 21st Century

  • Reagan Campbell-Gillard

    Professional rugby league footballer

    Sport · 21st Century

  • Reagan MacNeil

    The protagonist character in The Exorcist

    Film · 1973

  • Reagan Pasternak

    Canadian actress known for Being Erica

    Film · 21st Century

  • Reagan Noble

    South African professional footballer

    Sport · 2000s

Frequently asked about Reagan

Is Reagan a boy or girl name?
Reagan is considered a unisex name. While it was traditionally masculine as a surname, it is currently more frequently given to girls in North America.
Is Reagan a common name?
It became quite popular in the United States starting in the 1980s and has remained a consistent choice for parents since then.
What is the Irish origin of Reagan?
It comes from the Gaelic name Riagán, which is rooted in the word for 'king' (rí).
Does Shakespeare use the name Reagan?
A similar spelling, 'Regan', is used for one of the daughters of King Lear in William Shakespeare's tragedy.

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