US Popularity Rank: 19430

Origin: Irish

Meaning: Ancient; King; Sharp or highly developed

Keen is an Anglicized version of the popular Irish boy’s name Cian, meaning “ancient.” Keen is also an English surname, which may derive from an Anglo-Saxon nickname meaning “brave” or the Old English word kene, meaning king. In modern English, the word “keen” can mean “eager or enthusiastic” or “sharp; highly developed.” With so many positive meanings, you can’t go wrong with this name for your little one!