Connor: a unisex name of Irish (Gaelic) origin meaning "This name derives from the Irish Gaelic “Conchúr,” which in turn derives from the Old Irish name “Conchobhar,” meaning “wolfkin, lover of wolves, lover of hounds".It derives from the Irish (Gaelic) word "CONCHOBHAR > Conchúr".
The name Connor carries a rich history rooted in Irish (Gaelic) culture. Derived from "CONCHOBHAR > Conchúr", this both name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Irish Gaelic “Conchúr,” which in turn derives from the Old Irish name “Conchobhar,” meaning “wolfkin, lover of wolves, lover of hounds. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Irish (Gaelic)-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Connor
Quick facts about Connor
Origin
Irish (Gaelic)
Gender
Unisex
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Irish Gaelic “Conchúr,” which in turn derives from the Old Irish name “Conchobhar,” meaning “wolfkin, lover of wolves, lover of hounds.” 1) Conchobar mac Nessa (son of Ness) was the king of Ulster in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. 2) Conchobar mac Donnchada was High-King of Ireland with the opposition (rí Érenn co fressabra) between 819 and 833. Conchobar was the son of Donnchad Midi, high-king of Ireland (733–797); his mother was Fuirseach, a noblewoman of the Dál nAraidi.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
CONCHOBHAR > Conchúr
How to Pronounce Connor
Connor is pronounced /ˈkɒn.ər/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Con-nor
Say it like: "CON-NOR"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Connor enjoys international appeal, used in 5 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, irish, german, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
englishirishgermanscottishwelsh
Frequently Asked Questions About Connor
What does the name Connor mean?
Connor means "This name derives from the Irish Gaelic “Conchúr,” which in turn derives from the Old Irish name “Conchobhar,” meaning “wolfkin, lover of wolves, lover of hounds.” 1) Conchobar mac Nessa (son of Ness) was the king of Ulster in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. 2) Conchobar mac Donnchada was High-King of Ireland with the opposition (rí Érenn co fressabra) between 819 and 833. Conchobar was the son of Donnchad Midi, high-king of Ireland (733–797); his mother was Fuirseach, a noblewoman of the Dál nAraidi.". The name comes from CONCHOBHAR > Conchúr. This irish (gaelic) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Connor for children of any gender often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Irish Gaelic “Conchúr,” which in turn derives from the Old Irish name “Conchobhar,” meaning “wolfkin, lover of wolves, lover of hounds.” 1) Conchobar mac Nessa (son of Ness) was the king of Ulster in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. 2) Conchobar mac Donnchada was High-King of Ireland with the opposition (rí Érenn co fressabra) between 819 and 833. Conchobar was the son of Donnchad Midi, high-king of Ireland (733–797); his mother was Fuirseach, a noblewoman of the Dál nAraidi." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Connor's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like IRISH MYTHOLOGY, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Connor?
Connor is a irish (gaelic) name. The name traces back to CONCHOBHAR > Conchúr. From its irish (gaelic) roots, Connor spread to become common in english, irish, german, scottish and other cultures. The irish (gaelic) meaning "This name derives from the Irish Gaelic “Conchúr,” which in turn derives from the Old Irish name “Conchobhar,” meaning “wolfkin, lover of wolves, lover of hounds.” 1) Conchobar mac Nessa (son of Ness) was the king of Ulster in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. 2) Conchobar mac Donnchada was High-King of Ireland with the opposition (rí Érenn co fressabra) between 819 and 833. Conchobar was the son of Donnchad Midi, high-king of Ireland (733–797); his mother was Fuirseach, a noblewoman of the Dál nAraidi." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Connor a boy or girl name?
Connor is a unisex name, given to both boys and girls. Unisex names have grown more popular since the 1990s, with parents choosing them for flexibility and modern appeal. Connor works equally well for any child, letting the person's identity shape how the name feels rather than the other way around. In irish (gaelic) tradition, Connor has historically been given to children of either gender. The meaning "This name derives from the Irish Gaelic “Conchúr,” which in turn derives from the Old Irish name “Conchobhar,” meaning “wolfkin, lover of wolves, lover of hounds.” 1) Conchobar mac Nessa (son of Ness) was the king of Ulster in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. 2) Conchobar mac Donnchada was High-King of Ireland with the opposition (rí Érenn co fressabra) between 819 and 833. Conchobar was the son of Donnchad Midi, high-king of Ireland (733–797); his mother was Fuirseach, a noblewoman of the Dál nAraidi." carries well for any child, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Connor?
Connor is pronounced "/ˈkɒn.ər/". This pronunciation follows ga language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Connor is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, irish, german, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with irish (gaelic) names, listening to a native speaker say Connor can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name.
How popular is the name Connor?
Connor is moderately popular with steady usage. With moderate popularity, Connor offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Connor's popularity may vary between irish (gaelic) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Irish Gaelic “Conchúr,” which in turn derives from the Old Irish name “Conchobhar,” meaning “wolfkin, lover of wolves, lover of hounds.” 1) Conchobar mac Nessa (son of Ness) was the king of Ulster in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. 2) Conchobar mac Donnchada was High-King of Ireland with the opposition (rí Érenn co fressabra) between 819 and 833. Conchobar was the son of Donnchad Midi, high-king of Ireland (733–797); his mother was Fuirseach, a noblewoman of the Dál nAraidi." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among unisex names, Connor holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Connor commonly used?
Connor spans multiple cultures, including english, irish, german, and 2 other traditions. Though irish (gaelic) in origin, Connor found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Connor, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Irish Gaelic “Conchúr,” which in turn derives from the Old Irish name “Conchobhar,” meaning “wolfkin, lover of wolves, lover of hounds.” 1) Conchobar mac Nessa (son of Ness) was the king of Ulster in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. 2) Conchobar mac Donnchada was High-King of Ireland with the opposition (rí Érenn co fressabra) between 819 and 833. Conchobar was the son of Donnchad Midi, high-king of Ireland (733–797); his mother was Fuirseach, a noblewoman of the Dál nAraidi." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Connor into their naming traditions. A child named Connor will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Connor is given to children of any gender, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Connor?
Connor carries associations with IRISH MYTHOLOGY. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Irish Gaelic “Conchúr,” which in turn derives from the Old Irish name “Conchobhar,” meaning “wolfkin, lover of wolves, lover of hounds.” 1) Conchobar mac Nessa (son of Ness) was the king of Ulster in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. 2) Conchobar mac Donnchada was High-King of Ireland with the opposition (rí Érenn co fressabra) between 819 and 833. Conchobar was the son of Donnchad Midi, high-king of Ireland (733–797); his mother was Fuirseach, a noblewoman of the Dál nAraidi." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In irish (gaelic) culture, where Connor originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Connor sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Connor often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.