Originating from the Gaelic name Conchobhar, Connor is steeped in Irish mythology and royal history. It strikes a rare balance: it is familiar enough that no one will ever mispronounce it, yet it lacks the overexposure of the current top-ten hits.
Verdict: Connor is a fantastic choice for a baby born in 2025. It offers the “surname style” that is currently fashionable (like Parker or Carter) but with significantly more history and cultural depth.
Connor Overview
- Meaning: Connor means “lover of hounds” in Irish and “wise” in Scottish.
- Gender: Connor is traditionally a name for baby boys.
- Origin: The name Connor is of Irish, Scottish, and Gaelic origin.
- Pronunciation: Connor is pronounced “CON-er” in American English. It is pronounced as “KON-uh” in British English.
- Popularity: Connor is a very popular name ranking at #97 out of 1,000 names in the US.
- Variations: Connah, Conner, Conor, Konner, Konnor.
- Namesakes: Connor Alfred Barwin, Connor Corum, Connor Gibbs, Connor Jacobus, Connor Paolo, Connor Samuel John Ball, Connor Thomas Barth.
What Does the Name Connor Mean?
The name Connor is anglicized from the Gaelic name Conchobhar. Its primary and most evocative meaning is “lover of hounds” or “master of hounds.” In ancient Celtic culture, this was not merely about being fond of dogs; the hound (wolfhound) was a symbol of war, loyalty, and protection. Therefore, the name implies a leader who commands loyalty and possesses a fierce, protective nature.
There is also a secondary etymological interpretation rooted in the element “conn,” which can translate to “wisdom” or “counsel,” giving the name the meaning of “wise” or “high desire.”
While the primary definition is of Irish origin, the name’s association with wisdom and strength also echoes through its history in Scotland.
Where Does the Name Connor Come From?
The name Connor has a rich tapestry of Scottish, Irish, and Gaelic origins. It is a direct descendant of the Gaelic boy’s name “Conchobhar.”
The most famous bearer in legend was Conchobar Mac Nessa, the semi-legendary King of Ulster. He is a central figure in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology, known for his tragic and complex reign. The name was eventually anglicized to Conor (the standard Irish spelling) and Connor (the standard British/American spelling).
The Scottish origin is tied to the migration of Irish families to Scotland, particularly the influence of the O’Connor clan. The O’Connors were a royal dynasty in the province of Connacht and remain one of the most significant families in Irish history.
How Popular Is the Name Connor?
Connor is a textbook example of a “modern classic.” According to the Social Security Administration data, it is a very popular name that has transitioned from a trendy hit to a stable staple. It ranked 97 out of the top 1,000 names for boys in 2021 (1).
Its trajectory tells a fascinating story. Connor entered the US Top 1,000 list in 1981 at rank 923. It skyrocketed during the 1990s, fueled by pop culture and a desire for softer, two-syllable names. It peaked in 2004 at rank 38.
While it has slowly descended from its peak, it has remained in the top 100 baby boy names in America for nearly 30 years. This longevity proves it is not a fleeting fad.
How Do I Pronounce Connor?
In American English, the name is pronounced “CON-er,” with emphasis on the first syllable. In British English and Australian accents, the “r” is often softer or dropped, sounding like “KON-uh.”
Is Connor a Boy or Girl Name?
Connor is traditionally and overwhelmingly a name for baby boys. While the trend of using surnames for girls (like Spencer or Parker) has risen, Connor has resisted this crossover and remains distinctively masculine in usage.
Variations of Connor
Because this name has traveled through centuries of Celtic history, it has several spelling variations based on region.
- Conor: The traditional Irish spelling.
- Conner: A common English surname variant used as a first name.
- Konnor: A modern Americanized spelling.
- Conchobhar: The original Ancient Gaelic form.
- Connah: A Welsh phonetic variation.
Nicknames for Connor
Connor is a short, punchy name that doesn’t necessarily need a nickname, but parents often love to shorten it. Here are common and creative options:
- Con: The most intuitive short form.
- Conman: A playful, mischievous nickname.
- Coco: A softer, creative option for a baby.
- Onyx: A stretch nickname playing on the “Con” sound.
- C-Bear: An affectionate term of endearment.
- Conn: The spelling used in high fantasy or historical fiction.
- Nero: A rare, edgy nickname derived from the end sound.
Names Similar to Connor
If you love the vibe of Connor, energetic, Celtic, and approachable, but want to explore other options, consider these names with similar spirits:
- Aiden: Shares the Irish roots and high energy.
- Caleb: A biblical option that feels just as friendly and solid.
- Cole: Short, punchy, and cool, much like the nickname “Con.”
- Declan: Another Irish saint name that is slightly more sophisticated.
- Dylan: A Welsh name that shares the “modern classic” status.
- Evan: Gentle, strong, and Celtic.
- Owen: A vowel-heavy Welsh name that pairs beautifully with Connor.
- Ryan: The ultimate Irish predecessor to the Connor trend.
- Callum: A Scottish “dove” to Connor’s “hound.”
- Austin: Shares the surname-as-first-name appeal.
Middle Names for Connor
Connor is a versatile “chameleon” name that pairs well with almost anything. We have curated these lists to help you find a specific “vibe.”
Classic & Timeless
These pairings anchor Connor in tradition, making it feel regal and established.
Modern & Edgy
Use a sharp, one-syllable middle name to give Connor a punchy, contemporary rhythm.
Preppy & Surnames
Double down on the surname trend for a sophisticated, Ivy-League feel.
Sibling Names for Connor
Building a sib-set around Connor is effortless because it plays well with both traditional names and modern trends.
For a Brother
For a Sister
Famous People Named Connor
- Connor McDavid: A Canadian ice hockey center and captain of the Edmonton Oilers, widely considered one of the greatest players in the sport.
- Connor McGregor: The notoriously famous Irish professional mixed martial artist and boxer.
- Connor Paolo: An American actor known for his role in the hit series Gossip Girl.
- Connor Franta: An American writer, entrepreneur, and award-winning YouTuber.
- Connor Jessup: A Canadian actor known for his role in the Netflix series Locke & Key.
Connor in Pop Culture
- Connor Roy: The eldest son in the critically acclaimed HBO series Succession.
- John Connor: The central messianic figure and leader of the resistance in the Terminator franchise.
- Connor MacLeod: The protagonist of the Highlander film series.
- Connor Walsh: A main character in the legal drama series How to Get Away with Murder.
- Connor Kenway: The Master Assassin protagonist of the video game Assassin’s Creed III.
FAQs About the Name Connor
Does Connor Mean “Strong-Willed”?
Yes, Connor also means “strong-willed” in Irish origin. This matches the other meaning of Connor, “wise,” almost perfectly. They are both great traits for your little boy to have as he grows into an adult.
Does Connor Mean “Wolf”?
Besides meaning “lover of hounds,” Connor also means “lover of wolves” in Irish origin. If you love wolves or any dog breed in general, consider Connor as your baby boy’s name.
Who Spells the Name Connor With One N and Who Spells With Two N’s?
Irish individuals prefer to spell the name with one N, as Conor. American parents prefer to spell this name with two N’s.
Is Connor a Biblical Name?
No, Connor is not a biblical name. It is of Gaelic and Celtic origin and does not appear in the Old or New Testaments. However, parents often pair it with biblical middle names like Elijah or Caleb to bridge the gap between heritage and faith.
What Is the Spiritual Meaning of the Name Connor?
Spiritually, the name Connor represents loyalty, instinct, and protection. Derived from “lover of hounds,” it embodies the spirit of the faithful companion and the guardian. It suggests a soul that is dedicated to protecting its “pack” or family unit.
