The Story Behind Meghan
Meghan is primarily recognized as a variant of Margaret. The name’s core meaning stems from Margaret, derived from the Greek word “margarites,” meaning “pearl.” This association imbues Meghan with connotations of beauty, rarity, and preciousness. While it began as a diminutive of Margaret, Meghan gained prominence as a standalone given name in its own right.
Pronunciation Guide
IPA: /ˈmɛɡən/
Phonetic: MEG-uhn
Gender Identity
female
Nicknames & Variations
Notable Meghan’s
- Meghan Markle — American actress and Duchess of Sussex
Cultural Associations
Meghan, through its connection to Margaret, carries a historical weight linked to royalty. Numerous historical figures have borne the name Margaret, including queens and saints. The association with pearls adds an element of classic elegance that transcends cultural boundaries. It’s popular across many English-speaking countries.
Global Usage
Meghan is predominantly used in North America (particularly the United States and Canada), the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. Its popularity has fluctuated over time but remains a consistently favored name within these regions. It’s also found to a lesser extent in some European countries.
Names with Similar Roots
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Meghan a biblical name?
Indirectly. It is derived from Margaret, which is associated with Saint Margaret in Christian tradition.
What does Meghan mean?
Meghan means ‘pearl,’ deriving its meaning from the Greek root for pearl, associated with its origin name Margaret.