Cohen

Cohen is a gender-neutral moniker with Irish and Hebrew origins. Primarily a last name, Cohen has risen in popularity as a first name across the US in recent years. It's best to use caution and do extra research when considering Cohen for your child, as it can be considered an insensitive or inappropriate choice by some. Its Hebrew roots link Cohen to kohén, the title for the priest caste descended from the prophet and elder brother of Moses and Aaron in Hebrew and Judaic tradition. Cohen also has Gaelic roots as the Anglicization of several Irish last names. From Ó Cadhain, Cohen adopts the meanings "descendant of Cadhan," "wild goose," and "barnacle." As an Anglicized form of Ó Cuáin, Cohen can be translated as "descendant of Cuán" and "hound" or "dog." Alternative spellings to Cohen include Coen, Cowen, and Cowan, though the pronunciation may differ from person to person and place to place.