Origin
Cohan is an anglicised form of the Irish surname Ó Catháin, which means 'descendant of Cathán'. The name Cathán is derived from the Gaelic word 'cath', meaning 'battle'. It is rooted in Irish Gaelic history and was historically associated with Gaelic chieftains. There is no direct Aboriginal or Māori origin for this name.
Meaning
In Australian English contexts, Cohan is often seen as a name symbolising strength and resilience, echoing its Gaelic origins related to 'battle'. It has gained popularity due to its distinctive sound and cultural connection to Irish heritage.
Pronunciation
/ˈkəʊ.hæn/ (Australian English pronunciation with stress on the first syllable),"KOH-han" in casual speech, emphasizing the first syllable. — IPA and phonetic guide.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Cohan (original form)
- Kohan (alternative spelling)
- Cohaney (diminutive in informal contexts)
Nicknames
- Coh
- Cohy
Name Days
- Not widely observed in Australia, but generally corresponds with Saint Cathán's feast days in Irish tradition, typically celebrated on 3 July or 15 July but not officially recognised in Australian calendars.
- For Māori or Aboriginal cultural events, no specific name days are associated with Cohan.
- N/A for Aboriginal or Māori cultural events.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with cohan:
- James and Cohan
- Liam and Cohan
- Euan and Cohan — suitable as middle names or sibling pairings.
Fun Facts
- The name Cohan has been adopted by various notable Australians, including athletes and artists, often celebrating Irish heritage.
- Cohan is sometimes used as a surname in Australia, inspired by its Irish roots and Irish diaspora culture.
- The name has appeared in Australian literature and media as a symbol of resilience and strength.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name cohan:
- Strong-willed
- Resilient
- Loyal
- Courageous
Aesthetic Qualities
Cohan has a balanced, approachable visual appeal in Australian English, with a modern yet traditional appearance, especially suited to contemporary and classic design styles.
Geographical Distribution
More common in Australian states with higher Irish immigrant populations, such as Victoria and New South Wales, reflecting historical Irish migration patterns.
Numerological Significance
Name number 8, associated with power, success, and material achievement in numerology, fitting well with the character traits associated with the name.
Astrological Connections
No specific zodiac signs are traditionally linked to the name, but the number 8 correlates with planetary influences of Saturn, representing discipline and structure.
Historical Context
The name Cohan appears in Irish historical records dating back centuries, associated with Gaelic chieftains and noble families. In Australia, it has become popular among Irish diaspora communities and is often chosen to honour ancestral roots.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts well across languages, with variants in Irish (Ó Catháin) and English (Cohan). It maintains its pronunciation and spelling with minimal changes.
Famous People Named cohan
- Cohan (Jimmy Cohan, Australian cricketer)
- Cohan (fictional character in Australian TV series)
- Cohan (family name of notable Australians in entertainment)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 1 |
2016 | 2 |