| Meaning | little dark one, little dark-haired one |
| Origin | Gaelic, Irish |
| Gender | gender neutral |
| Opposite gender | Kiernan |
| Popularity | Moderate |
| Length | 7 |
| Syllables | 2 |
| Syllabification | Kier-nan |
Kiernan possesses an appealing Celtic lilt that's both melodic and masculine. The name feels adventurous and spirited, suggesting someone with a zest for life and natural charisma. What makes Kiernan particularly attractive is its balance—it's unusual enough to feel special but familiar enough that people can pronounce and spell it without difficulty. The name has a youthful energy that never quite fades, making it suitable for all ages. Kiernan has literary and artistic associations, often connected to creative, thoughtful individuals who march to their own drum. Parents who choose Kiernan typically value individuality and aren't afraid to step outside conventional naming trends. The name's Irish heritage adds depth and cultural connection, while its relatively modern use in English-speaking countries gives it a fresh, contemporary feel. Kiernan is strong without being harsh, distinctive without being bizarre.
| Kier |
| Nan |
| Ki |
| Kierny |
| Kiernan Shipka | American actress |
| Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall | English footballer |
| Kiernan Mancini | American screenwriter and author |
| Kiernan McMullan | Irish-American singer-songwriter |
| Kiernan Forbes | South African DJ and record producer |
| Kiernan Antares | American musician |
| Kiernan Milling | Scottish footballer |
| Kiernan McGowan | Irish footballer |
| Kiernan Hughes-Mason | English footballer |
| Kiernan Ryan | British academic |
| Kiernan Robins | Australian rules footballer |
| Kiernan Randall | American composer |
| Kiernan Bates | Canadian cyclist |
| Kiernan Jarryd Forbes | South African rapper |
| Kiernan Crimmins | Australian rules footballer |
| Kiernan Brennan Shipka | American actress |
| Kiernan Spinelli | Character in the TV series "Chilling Adventures of Sabrina" |
| Kiernan Merek | Character in the book series "The Elemental Trilogy" by Sherry Thomas |
| Kiernan Ross | Character in the book "The Taking" by Kimberly Derting |
| Kiernan Winstone | Character in the TV series "Good Witch" |
| Kiernan Ackerman | Character in the book "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children" by Ransom Riggs |
| Kiernan Harman | Character in the book "Earthseed" by Pamela Sargent |
| Kiernan Wimmer | Character in the TV series "Hannibal" |
| Kiernan McCool | Character in the book "How to Hang a Witch" by Adriana Mather |
| Kiernan Foy | Character in the TV series "The Haunting of Hill House" |
| Kiernan Fanning | Character in the book "The Year of Shadows" by Claire Legrand |