boy name · Scottish origin
Duncan
/ DUNG-kun /
Meaning
Duncan means Brown warrior (Scottish).
Gender
Boy
Origin
Scottish
Pronunciation
DUNG-kun
Popularity
#1124 · U.S. boys (2025)
Popularity of Duncan in the US, 1880–2025
Duncan first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1997, when 644 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 190.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
What does Duncan mean?
Duncan comes from the Gaelic for “brown” or “dark warrior.”
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Duncan mean?
Duncan means Brown warrior. Duncan comes from the Gaelic for “brown” or “dark warrior.”
What is the origin of the name Duncan?
Duncan is of Scottish origin.
How do you pronounce Duncan?
Duncan is pronounced “DUNG-kun.”
Is Duncan a boy or a girl name?
Duncan is most commonly used as a boy name.
How popular is the name Duncan?
In 2025, Duncan ranked #1124 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Duncan most popular?
Duncan was most popular in 1997, when about 644 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.