Kanan is a unique unisex baby name that can mean “merchant” (from Arabic), “forest, grove” (from Sanskrit), “quiver of arrows” (from Turkish), “little wolf” (from Welsh), and “answering dream” or “south” (from Japanese). Kanan has only just entered the top 1,000 baby names in the U.S., but is a popular name in other regions around the world.
Meaning and Origin of the Name Kanan:
Kanan is a unisex baby name with many different origins. Kanan is a boy’s name in Arabic, Turkish, and Welsh. Kanan is a unisex name in Sanskrit and Japanese. In Arabic, it means “merchant”. In Sanskrit, Kanan means “forest, grove”. In Turkish, it means “quiver of arrows”. In Welsh, Kanan is the Anglicized version of Cuán and means “little wolf”. In Japanese, Kanan means “answering dream” as a girl’s name and “south” as a boy’s name. With all of these different meanings, your baby is sure to be a jack of all trades with this name! There is debate over where the name first originated; many believe that it first arose in India or in Arabic countries, but this isn't definitive.
Symbolism of the Name Kanan:
Kanan has rich natural symbolism such as forests, groves, and wolves. This gives the name Kanan strong ties to nature. Wolves are symbols of community, strength, and survival.
Nicknames for the Name Kanan:
Looking for a nickname to go with Kanan? We've got plenty of great options for you! A name like Kanan needs a cool nickname. From Kay to Kenners, here are our picks for the best Kanan nicknames:
Style of the Name Kanan:
Traditional
Gender of the Name Kanan:
Kanan is a great name for both boys and girls.
Pronunciation of the Name Kanan:
KYEH-nan, KU-nan
Number of Syllables in the Name Kanan:
Two
Emotion Evoked From the Name Kanan:
Kanan evokes feelings of strength and passion.
Alternative Spellings for the Name Kanan:
Kenan, Canan, Conan, Konan, Kanen
Popularity of the Name Kanan:
According to the Social Security Administration, Kanan is an uncommon baby boy’s name. Kanan appeared in the top 1,000 names list for the first time in 2022, appearing at number 998 on the boys' list. It has yet to appear on the top 1,000 girls' names list.
Related Names for the Name Kanan:
Great Middle Names for the Name Kanan and Their Meanings:
Boys:
Girls:
Famous People with the Name Kanan:
- Kanan Badalov (American chef)
- Kanan Gill (Indian stand-up comedian)
- Kanan Minami (Japanese manga artist)
- Kanan Malhotra (Indian model)
- Kanan Devi (Indian actress and singer)
Kanan in Popular Culture:
- Kanan Jarrus (television, “Star Wars Rebels”)
- Kanan Elijah Stark (television, “Power”)
- Kanan Matsuura (television, “Love Live Sunshine!”)
- Kanan (comics, “Saiyuki”)
- Kanan the Swordmis (television, “Yu-Gi-Oh!”)
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Katrina Elena/Shutterstock.com.