Sullivan

Updated: October 19, 2023 by MomsWhoThink Staff

Sullivan is a strong baby name for boys with Irish and Gaelic origins. It has only recently maintained a sense of consistency in popularity in the United States. As of 2020, for instance, it is a top 400 option for boys.

Meaning of the Name Sullivan

Sullivan originated as a last name option in Ireland from the ancient Gaelic surname O Suileabhain. This name meant “descendent of Suileabhan.” Ultimately, it was for families whose patriarch was a son to a Suileabhan.

Sullivan originates, ultimately, to the baby name Suileabhan. This ancient Gaelic baby name means “little dark eye” correlating to the more modern meanings of Sullivan.

Nothing beats a good breakfast. A cute little boy eating toast with jam. — ©PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock.com

Nicknames for Sullivan

Sullivan is a strong name that is wholesome. It is a bit formal and almost trendy in modern years and should have an equally trendy nickname to pair it with. If you're looking for a nickname for the Sullivan in your life, we've compiled a list of fun options to get you inspired.

Sullie
Sully
Van
Vanny
Vanni
Vannie
Livvy

Sullivan Name Details

Style: Traditional

Gender: Sullivan is traditionally considered a boys name.

Pronunciation: SUL-i-ven

Syllables: Three

Alternative Spelling for Sullivan

Sulivan
Sulivann
Sullivann
Sullyvan
Sulliven

Sullivan Name Popularity

Sullivan was rank 898 in 1900 and did not appear on the top 1,000 list of the Social Security Index again until 2002 at rank 993. As of 2020, Sullivan is a top 400 option at rank 398.