Kyan

Most people think Kyan is just Ryan with a “K” so they erroneously believe that Kyan also means “little king” (like Ryan). However, Kyan is more closely related to another Irish masculine name (Cian) which Americans like to spell Kian and pronounce “KYE-әn” (the Irish pronunciation is either KEEN or KEE-an, which also gave us the surname Keane). Cian comes from the Gaelic meaning “ancient, enduring” and was most famously borne by the son-in-law of the early 11th century High King of Ireland Brian Boru. Cian mac Máelmuaid assisted Brian in leading the Irish armies to victory over the Vikings at the Battle of Clontarf. Interestingly, Kian also happens to be a high ranking name in Iran, a Persian name meaning “benevolent king” and an Arabic name meaning “soul, essence”. So some people have adopted the meanings “ancient king” or “old soul” for their little Kyans; although it seems clear that English speakers have borrowed the name from the Irish-Gaelic Cian rather than adopting it from the East. Cian has been resurrected in Ireland and is now a Top 20 favorite name choice for boys. Kian with a “k” is preferred in England, Wales and Scotland and Kyan has emerged as yet another spelling variation.