Cullen – Name Meaning, Origin, Popularity
Meaning of Cullen:
The name Cullen is derived from the Irish surname “Ó Cuilinn,” meaning “descendant of Cuileann.” “Cuileann” translates to “holly” in English. In Anglo-Saxon, the name is associated with the Old English word “cweorn,” meaning “mill” or “granary.”
Origin and History of Cove:
Cullen originated as a surname, indicating a familial connection to a person or place named Cuileann or Holly. Like many surnames, it later transitioned into use as a given name. This shift from surname to given name is a common practice in English-speaking cultures.
The name has historical significance in Ireland, and individuals with this surname have likely traced their ancestry to places or families associated with holly trees.
Popularity of Cullen:
According to the United States Social Security Administration, Cullen is the 3146th most popular name in the United States. An estimated 5,029 have this name, and there are 1.58 people with this name for every 100,000 Americans.
This has become a popular given name, particularly in English-speaking countries. It gained broader recognition through its use in literature, film, and popular culture. The name’s popularity might be influenced by its association with Irish heritage and its melodic sound.
The popularity of the name received a significant boost from the fictional Cullen family in Stephenie Meyer’s “Twilight” series. The Cullen family, consisting of vampires, became widely known through the books and subsequent films.
Famous People Named Cullen:
- Cullen Jones (Cullen Andrew Jones): Cullen Jones is an American competitive swimmer and Olympic gold medalist. He is known for his achievements in swimming, particularly in freestyle events.
- Cullen Landis (Cullen Landis): Cullen Landis was an American film actor who appeared in silent films during the early 20th century.
- Cullen Murphy (Cullen Murphy): Cullen Murphy is an American editor and writer, known for his work as the editor-at-large for Vanity Fair and for his contributions to various publications.
Nicknames for Cullen:
Some common nicknames for Cullen could include:
- Cull
- Len