How common is the Killian surname?

There are approximately 8,000 people with the surname Killian in the United States.

Are there Killian soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 301 soldiers with the Killian surname appear in Civil War records.

Killian

Q: What does the surname Killian mean?

The surname Killian means "Descendant of Cillian, a name derived from the Irish word for church or cell.". It is of Irish origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Descendant of Cillian, a name derived from the Irish word for church or cell.

Etymology

An anglicized form of the Irish patronymic Ó Cillín or Mac Cillín, derived from the personal name Cillian. The name comes from 'cill' meaning church or monastic cell.

About the Killian Surname

An Irish patronymic surname with ecclesiastical origins reflecting the importance of the Church in Irish society. The name has spread internationally through Irish emigration.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 8,000 bearers in the United States #1,263 most common surname

Rare Common

Primarily found in Ireland and among Irish diaspora communities worldwide.

Killian Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Killian Surname

T.D. Killian

1820–1885 Businessman Pennsylvania

Quick Facts

Origin: Irish
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: 16th century
Estimated Bearers: 8,000

War Records

301 soldiers with the Killian surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →