Duncan vs Liam

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Duncan

Boy #1,104 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"dark warrior"

Origin: Scottish Gaelic

Cultural Roots

Scottish Irish British American

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#1,104
Total SSA Count
194
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Dunc, Dunk

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Duncan →

Liam

Boy #1 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"strong-willed warrior"

Origin: Irish

Cultural Roots

Irish English American

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#1
Total SSA Count
22,164
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Lee

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Liam →

Popularity Comparison

Duncan Rank #1,104
Liam Rank #1

Liam is more popular, ranked #1 vs #1104 for Duncan.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Duncan ___

  • Duncan James
  • Duncan Robert
  • Duncan Alistair
  • Duncan Fraser
  • Duncan Ian
  • Duncan Callum

Liam ___

  • Liam James
  • Liam Alexander
  • Liam Thomas
  • Liam Michael
  • Liam Patrick
  • Liam Joseph

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Duncan

Callum Alistair Isla Fiona Malcolm

If you choose Liam

Olivia Emma Noah Charlotte Sophia

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Duncan or Liam more popular?

Liam is more popular, ranked #1 compared to Duncan at #1104 in the United States.

What do Duncan and Liam mean?

Duncan means "dark warrior" (Scottish Gaelic origin). Liam means "strong-willed warrior" (Irish origin).

Are Duncan and Liam boy or girl names?

Duncan is primarily a boy name. Liam is primarily a boy name.

More Comparisons

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← Full profile: Duncan ← Full profile: Liam Browse all baby names