Quinn \qu(i)-nn\ as a boy's name (also used as girl's name Quinn), is pronounced kwin. It is of Irish and Gaelic origin, and the meaning of Quinn is "counsel". May also possibly mean "descendant of Con", which has connotations for "intelligence". A Scottish and Irish surname used as a given name from very ancient times. Quin (keen) is a Spanish short form of Joaquin. Actor Aidan Quinn.