Duncan: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Boy name origins & meanings

What does Duncan mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Scottish: "dark warrior" or "deep thought"

Gender: Male

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Duncan is pronounced dun-kan

Duncan is of Scottish origin and means "dark warrior." It reflects strength and resilience, often associated with noble lineage in history.

Boy name variations

Family name origins & meanings

Scottish and Irish (of Scottish origin): from the Gaelic personal name Donnchadh, composed of the elements donn "brown-haired man" or "chieftain" + a derivative of cath "battle", Anglicized in Ireland as Donagh or Donaghue. Compare Donahue.

Irish (Sligo): used as an Anglicized equivalent of Gaelic Ó Duinnchinn "descendant of Donncheann", a byname composed of the elements donn "brown-haired man" or "chieftain" + ceann "head".

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Alfre Woodard

David Bowie

Duncan in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share the first name?

Duncan MacLeod from Highlander - A Scottish immortal warrior, Duncan MacLeod navigates through centuries, facing numerous enemies while seeking to understand his place in the world.
Duncan from Big Daddy - A young boy who becomes an unlikely beneficiary of his caretaker's struggles, bringing humor and heart to the film.
Duncan from Employee of the Month - A store employee who is determined to prove himself, showcasing the challenges and antics of retail life.
Duncan from Barney & Friends - A lovable character who engages children in learning through songs and friendship.
Duncan from The Amazing World of Gumball - A character known for his fun-loving nature in the animated series, challenging his friends in absurd scenarios.

Popularity of the Name Duncan

According to Social Security Administration data, Duncan has experienced fluctuating popularity over the years, peaking in the late 1990s. It has remained a unique choice among parents, ranking within the top 500 names since 2000, yet not consistently within the top 100. Historically, Duncan is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Donnchadh," which means "dark warrior." Notable figures include Duncan I of Scotland, whose legacy inspired Shakespeare's character in "Macbeth." Fictional characters named Duncan have also appeared in various media, contributing to its ongoing presence in popular culture.