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Conor

Conor is a masculine of origin. The name derives from the ''Conchobar'', composed of the elements ''cú'' ("hound") and ''cobar'' ("desiring"), thus meaning "lover of hounds" or "lover of wolves". It is a variant of the more common spelling Connor, along with other forms such as Conner and Konnor. The name has historical roots in , associated with figures like . The popularity of Conor has grown in the since the 1970s. As of 2024, it ranked #707 for boys in the United States (376 births), #264 in (for Connor variant), and #19 in (210 births).

The Name

Etymology and Meaning

The name Conor derives from the compound Conchobhar, a common in early medieval . This term is typically analyzed as comprising two elements: con, the genitive form of cú meaning "," "dog," or "," and cobar or cobhar meaning "desiring" or "lover." Thus, the name is commonly interpreted as "lover of hounds," "lover of wolves," or "hound lord," reflecting a semantic emphasis on affinity for these animals. Alternative scholarly interpretations propose a different breakdown, linking Conchobhar to ceann (Old Irish conn), denoting "head" or "chief," combined with cobhair, signifying "aid," "help," or "relief." This yields meanings such as "chief helper," "helper of the chief," or "high desire," aligning with connotations of and . Rev. Patrick Woulfe, in his 1923 study of Irish , similarly renders it as "high will" or "desire," underscoring its aspirational undertones without reference to canine elements. In , the name's etymological ties to and wolves resonate with the cultural reverence for these creatures, who symbolized , bravery, and prowess in hunting—qualities embodied in legendary figures and breeds like the , a reserved for nobility. The name emerges within the cultural context of the myths, a corpus of early Irish tales centered on heroic kings and warriors.

Historical Origins

The name Conchobar first gained prominence in the of , a collection of heroic tales composed between the 8th and 12th centuries CE but set in a legendary era around the 1st century BCE to 1st century CE. In these narratives, King emerges as a central figure, ruling from Emain and embodying the archetype of a wise yet flawed warrior-king who leads the Knights against rivals like Queen of . His role is pivotal in epic stories such as the (Cattle Raid of Cooley), where he oversees the defense of amid a debilitating curse on its warriors, highlighting themes of loyalty, heroism, and geopolitical strife in ancient . The name evolved through medieval and genealogies, where Conchobhar is attested as a royal designation among the kings of during the pseudo-historical period from the 1st to 5th centuries CE. These records, compiled in manuscripts like the and Annals of Tigernach, blend mythological origins with later historical claims, portraying Conchobhar as a recurring name in 's dynastic lines, such as the descendants of legendary figures like Fergus mac Róich. For instance, genealogical tracts link it to early rulers, reinforcing its association with provincial sovereignty and martial prowess in a time of tribal conflicts. During Ireland's from the 5th to 12th centuries, the name persisted and adapted within contexts, appearing among church leaders and contributing to its endurance in clans. Figures such as Tommaltach Ua Conchobair, who served as bishop of Elphin before becoming around 1183–1201, exemplify how Conchobhar transitioned from pagan royalty to Christian hierarchy, aiding the integration of old names into monastic and diocesan structures. This adaptation helped maintain the name in prominent families like the Uí Conchobair of , where it symbolized continuity amid cultural shifts. The name's endurance also played a role in preserving pre-Christian pagan elements, particularly the warrior-king linked to its roots in con (hound) and cobar (loving), evoking a hound-devoted leader symbolizing fierce loyalty and hunting prowess in lore. Through tales of , this connotation bridged ancient Celtic values with later Christian narratives, ensuring the survival of motifs like divine omens and heroic oaths in Irish tradition.

Usage and Popularity

Variants and Spellings

The primary Irish form of the name is Conchobhar or Conchubar, an ancient that was anglicized to Conor during the 19th and 20th centuries to approximate its phonetic of /ˈkɒnər/. This adaptation occurred amid broader patterns of name simplification under English influence, while retaining the core structure of the Gaelic original. In English-speaking contexts, common variants include Connor, the most prevalent form in the United States and where the double "n" provides orthographic emphasis; Conner, a simplified ; Konnor, a contemporary stylized version substituting "K" for a modern aesthetic; and rarer forms such as Conchur. These variations emerged as the name spread beyond , often prioritizing ease of reading and writing in non-Gaelic scripts. Regionally, adaptations appear in Scottish Highland clans, where Conor or Connor served as sept names linked to Gaelic roots, such as in associations with deriving from Conchobhar. No significant non-Celtic variants exist, as the name remains tied to its origins across Celtic-influenced areas. During the late 19th-century Revival, also known as the , efforts to revive native culture promoted Conor as the standardized and authentic spelling for use in , , and personal naming, countering earlier anglicizations. This movement emphasized returning to forms to preserve linguistic heritage. All variants trace back to the original etymology denoting "lover of hounds."

Modern Trends and Demographics

The name Conor has experienced a notable rise in popularity since the in and the , reflecting a broader resurgence of traditional names amid cultural efforts. In Ireland, Conor entered the top 100 boys' names by the late and climbed steadily, reaching the top 10 by the , where it remained a staple choice for over two decades before a slight dip; for instance, it ranked 4th in 2021 but fell to 13th in 2022, before rising to 12th in 2023 and remaining at 12th in 2024. In , the name gained traction similarly, peaking at rank #351 in 2023 with 0.04% usage among boys, before declining to #422 in 2024 at 0.03% usage, according to data. In the United States, Conor first appeared in records in 1961 with fewer than five births, marking its entry into national data, and gradually increased in use through the late . It peaked at #232 nationally in 1993 with 0.061% usage (approximately 1,250 births), driven by growing interest in Irish heritage names, though the variant "Connor" has consistently ranked higher, such as #98 in . By , Conor itself stood at #462 with 645 boys receiving the name (0.034% usage), but it has since trended downward to #707 in 2024 at 0.020% usage. Several cultural factors have influenced these trends, including the enduring impact of the , which has carried the name to English-speaking countries since the , fostering its adoption among communities celebrating roots. Media exposure through films, television, and public figures has further amplified visibility, while initiatives like Connor Name Day on June 20—recognized as a nameday in tradition and promoted through awareness campaigns since the —have encouraged its use by highlighting its historical significance. Conor remains predominantly masculine, with over 99% of usages for boys globally; for example, U.S. Social Security data shows 100% male assignment since 1961, and international analyses confirm 99.8% male distribution. Rare unisex applications occur but are negligible. The name has spread to Australia and Canada primarily through Irish migration patterns, where it enjoys moderate popularity—ranking in the top 1,000 boys' names in both nations, though less dominant than in Ireland—yet it shows a slight post-2020 decline across regions, attributed to parents favoring more diverse or modern naming options amid broader trends in personalization.

Notable People

In Sports

Conor McGregor, born July 14, 1988, in Dublin, Ireland, is a professional mixed martial artist renowned for his achievements in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He debuted in the UFC on April 6, 2013, and quickly rose to prominence, becoming the first fighter to hold UFC titles in two weight classes simultaneously. McGregor won the interim UFC featherweight championship on July 11, 2015, by defeating Chad Mendes via TKO in the second round, and unified the title on December 12, 2015, with a 13-second knockout of Jose Aldo. He captured the UFC lightweight title on November 12, 2016, defeating Eddie Alvarez by TKO in the second round, holding both belts until vacating the featherweight title in 2018. His professional record stands at 22 wins and 6 losses as of November 2025. Subsequent highlights include a loss to Khabib Nurmagomedov in 2018, a win over Donald Cerrone in 2020, losses to Dustin Poirier in 2021 accompanied by a severe leg injury, and an acting debut as Knox in the 2024 film Road House. Beyond MMA, McGregor ventured into professional boxing, facing Floyd Mayweather Jr. on August 26, 2017, in a high-profile bout that ended in a tenth-round TKO loss for McGregor, though it drew over 4.3 million pay-per-view buys. He founded Proper No. Twelve whiskey in 2018, sold to Proximo Spirits for nearly $600 million in 2021. As of November 2025, McGregor is serving an 18-month suspension from the UFC for anti-doping policy violations (whereabouts failures), set to conclude in March 2026, during which he has announced plans for a bare-knuckle boxing match under BKFC and a UFC return. Conor Bradley, born September 7, 2003, in Aghalee, , is a professional footballer who plays as a right-back for and the national team. He joined Liverpool's academy in 2019 after progressing through Dungannon United Youth and signed his first professional contract in July 2020. Bradley made his senior debut for Liverpool on September 21, 2021, in a match against , becoming the first Northern Irishman to play for the club in 70 years. His international debut came for on September 8, 2020, in a match against . During the 2023-2024 season, following a loan spell at Bolton Wanderers where he made over 50 appearances, Bradley earned significant playing time at Liverpool due to Alexander-Arnold's injury, contributing six assists across competitions and scoring his first senior goal in a 4-1 win over on January 31, 2024. In the 2024-2025 season, he continued to feature regularly, appearing in 14 matches by November 2025 and earning the Senior Men's Player of the Year award for 2024. Conor Murray, born April 20, 1989, in , , is a retired professional scrum-half who represented and the national team. He joined the Munster Academy in 2008, made his senior debut in 2009 against , and secured a senior contract in 2011, going on to play over 200 matches for the province. Murray debuted for on February 26, 2012, against in the , accumulating 125 caps by his retirement in September 2025, including contributions to five titles and a in 2023. He participated in three British & Irish Lions tours: in 2013, featuring in seven games including two Tests; in 2017, starting all three Tests and scoring a try in the second; and in 2021, where he captained the side during Alun Wyn Jones's injury. Notable achievements include scoring a try in 's historic 40-29 victory over in 2016 and being named to the Team of the Decade for 2010-2019. Individuals named Conor have notably excelled in Irish-dominated sports, particularly in combat disciplines like MMA and team athletics such as and , reflecting the name's strong association with athletic prowess on the island.

In Arts and Entertainment

is an American singer-songwriter renowned as the founder and primary creative force behind the band Bright Eyes. His work with the band, which he started as a teenager in , has significantly influenced the genre through its confessional lyrics, lo-fi aesthetics, and emotional intensity. Oberst's breakthrough album Fevers and Mirrors (2000) marked a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing his evolution into a highly regarded songwriter and helping to popularize introspective within broader circles. Conor Maynard is a singer and who first gained attention through viral cover songs on before transitioning to a professional . His debut album (2012), released via , debuted at number one on the , blending contemporary pop with R&B influences and featuring collaborations with producers like and Labrinth. The album's success, driven by singles such as "Can't Say No," established Maynard as a prominent figure in the UK's pop landscape during the early . Conor McPherson (born 1971) is an playwright and director celebrated for his supernatural-tinged dramas exploring human isolation and . His breakthrough play (1997), set in a rural where locals share ghost stories, premiered at London's and won the Olivier Award for Best New Play in 1999. McPherson's later work Shining City (2004), a ghostly tale of and , earned a Tony Award nomination for Best Play when it transferred to in 2006, solidifying his reputation for masterful storytelling in contemporary theater. Conor Woodman is an Irish television presenter and author known for his adventurous explorations of global economies and crafts. He hosted the BBC series Around the World in 80 Trades (2009–2010), in which he invested £25,000 to trade commodities across , , and , highlighting traditional craftsmanship and market dynamics in regions like and . Woodman also authored a companion book detailing the journey, emphasizing sustainable trading practices and cultural exchanges in an increasingly globalized world.

In Politics and Other Fields

Conor Cruise O'Brien (1917–2008) was an , politician, and historian who gained international prominence as the ' special representative in the during the 1960–1961 crisis, where he advocated for efforts amid escalating conflict. He later served as a (TD) for the in the from 1969 to 1977, representing North-East, and held the position of Minister for Posts and Telegraphs from 1973 to 1977, during which he implemented reforms in broadcasting and telecommunications policy. O'Brien's scholarly work focused on history and , including influential analyses of figures like and , emphasizing the tensions between constitutional politics and revolutionary impulses in Ireland. Conor Burns (born 1972) is a British Conservative politician who represented Bournemouth West as a from 2010 to 2024, initially elected in the 2010 general election and re-elected in subsequent terms until losing the seat in the 2024 election. Born in , he served as Minister of State at the from 2021 to 2022, contributing to post-Brexit trade negotiations and the implementation of the , though his tenure ended amid controversy leading to a temporary suspension from the . Earlier roles included to from 2019 to 2022, where he supported policy on international trade and defense. Conor Brady (born 1949) is an Irish journalist and academic who edited The Irish Times from 1986 to 2002, overseeing a period of significant digital innovation, including the launch of one of the world's first editions in 1994. During his editorship, he shaped coverage of key Irish issues such as the , authoring editorials that balanced nationalist perspectives with calls for reconciliation and media accountability. Brady has also contributed to public service as the first for An from 2005 to 2011, investigating complaints against the police and advocating for transparency in law enforcement, and he holds an honorary professorship in at the , where he lectures on ethics and history in media. Conor Gearty (1957–2025) was an Irish-British legal scholar and professor of human rights law at the London School of Economics (LSE) from 2002 until his death, specializing in constitutional law, civil liberties, and the intersection of terrorism with rights protections. Educated at University College Dublin and the University of Cambridge, where he earned his PhD, Gearty founded the LSE Centre for the Study of Human Rights and served as its director from 2002 to 2009, influencing policy debates on anti-terrorism legislation through expert testimony to UK parliamentary committees. His publications, including Liberty and Security (2013) and On Fantasy Island (2016), critiqued the erosion of civil liberties in post-9/11 security frameworks, earning him election as a Fellow of the British Academy in 2014 for his contributions to human rights theory.

Fictional Characters

In Literature

One prominent fictional character named Conor in literature is Conor O'Malley, the 13-year-old of Patrick Ness's 2011 A Monster Calls. Facing his mother's terminal cancer, Conor grapples with grief through nightly visits from a yew monster that shares stories to help him confront his emotions and the truth of his loss. Another significant figure is Conor Larkin, the central hero in Leon Uris's 1976 historical Trinity, set against the backdrop of Ireland's struggle for . Born into poverty in a fictional town, Conor evolves from a rebellious youth to a key revolutionary during the 1916 , embodying themes of Irish nationalism, family loyalty, and resistance against British rule within a multi-generational saga. Fictional characters named Conor often appear as young male protagonists confronting personal turmoil or historical upheavals, frequently drawing on Irish heritage to explore identity and resilience, as seen in these examples.

In Film and Television

In film and television, fictional characters named Conor or Connor frequently embody complex young protagonists dealing with moral ambiguity, family pressures, and personal growth in high-stakes environments. A key example is Connor Walsh, portrayed by Jack Falahee in the ABC legal drama How to Get Away with Murder (2014–2020). Walsh is a sharp-witted, openly law student at Middleton University who joins Annalise Keating's elite internship program, only to become deeply involved in a web of murders, cover-ups, and ethical quandaries that test his cunning nature and self-serving instincts. His arc explores themes of manipulation and vulnerability, evolving from a "certifiable know-it-all, man-eating heartbreaker" to a figure confronting the consequences of his actions amid the group's criminal conspiracies. Another notable portrayal is Conor Donovan, played by Devon Bagby in the Showtime series (2013–2020). As the youngest child of fixer Ray Donovan and his wife , Conor inherits the family's volatile temper and grapples with profound trauma, including his mother's cancer diagnosis and the chaotic influence of his criminal relatives. Throughout the series, he navigates issues, impulsive behaviors like reckless gun use, and strained relationships, particularly with his protective yet flawed father, highlighting the generational cycle of dysfunction in the Donovan household. In the Disney XD comedy Gamer's Guide to Pretty Much Everything (2015–2018), Conor is the central character, brought to life by . A 17-year-old professional video known online as "," Conor suffers a injury that derails his career, forcing him to enroll in high school for the first time and confront social awkwardness, friendships, and his competitive drive while scheming ways to reclaim his gaming glory. His journey blends humor with coming-of-age challenges, as he adapts to "real life" beyond the screen. These characters often represent troubled youths or anti-heroes entangled in dramatic, high-tension narratives, reflecting broader storytelling trends in modern television. Casting choices sometimes draw on Irish-American heritage, as with Falahee, whose paternal lineage traces to Ireland, adding cultural resonance to roles involving familial strife.

In Video Games and Other Media

In video games, the name Conor has been used for fictional characters in niche and titles, often emphasizing personal or quest-based narratives. A prominent example is the titular in the anthology Conor Origins - T Trilogy (2024), developed and self-published by Conor Hehr, where Conor navigates emotional and psychological challenges across three stories: a solitary night walk reflecting on isolation in They Cannot Hear Me, a tense with companion Mila in Trapped, and a confession-driven plot involving betrayal in The Weird One. The game employs both kinetic storytelling and player choices to explore mature themes like and loss, marking it as an effort in . While the variant spelling "Connor" is more prevalent—such as the android detective in Detroit: Become Human (2018) by , who investigates deviant androids in a near-future —this section focuses on "Conor" appearances, including minor non-player characters (NPCs) in Irish-developed games supporting educational and mythological quests inspired by lore. In and graphic novels, characters named Conor are rare but appear as supporting figures in Irish works retelling mythology, such as King Conor mac Nessa in Patrick Brown's series, providing cultural depth to ensemble casts of heroes and mythical beings. These instances tie into broader trends of using "Conor" in games and media for authentic representation, frequently casting the name for sidekicks or protagonists in fantasy RPGs and adventure simulations to evoke heritage without dominating mainstream titles.