Kilian

Kilian is a form of the Irish name Cillian used in German and other European languages. Cillian's origin is not certain, though a connection with the Irish word for church and a diminutive ending is a leading explanation. The Irish missionary Saint Kilian, associated with Würzburg, helps explain why the name became established beyond Ireland.

The k spelling makes its hard opening sound clear to English-speaking readers who might hesitate over Cillian. Kilian also uses one l, compared with Killian's two. Those small differences may matter when choosing a family or cultural form. The name has a lively three-part rhythm in some languages and a more compressed sound in others, so parents should consider the pronunciation used in their own household.