Aidan

Little fire — a boy name of Irish origin

GenderBoy
OriginIrish
MeaningLittle fire
PronunciationAY-dan

Popularity of Aidan in the United States

#326Rank in 2025
1,043Births in 2025
#39 in 2003Peak Popularity
↓ Declining10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Aidan

Aidan derives from the Old Irish "Aodhan," a diminutive of "Aodh," the Celtic god of the sun and fire, giving the name its poetic meaning of "little fire." Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne, a seventh-century Irish monk who helped spread Christianity across northern England, lent the name lasting religious significance. Aidan became enormously popular in the United States and Canada in the 1990s and 2000s, part of a wave of Celtic-inspired boys' names. Though it has since declined from its peak, it remains a familiar and well-loved choice.

Aidan Around the World

Aidan is used in 0 languages worldwide, with 5+ international variants.

Languages
Details

TypeMale given name

International Variants
AidanoItalian
Aodhan
AedanEnglish
Aidy
AodhánIrish

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Aidan

AidAdy

Famous People Named Aidan

  • Aidan Quinn — Irish-American actor
  • Aidan Turner — Irish actor
  • Aidan Gillen — Irish actor known for "Game of Thrones"

Similar Names to Aidan

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Sibling Name Ideas for Aidan

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Aidan mean?

Aidan is a boy name of Irish origin meaning "Little fire." Aidan derives from the Old Irish "Aodhan," a diminutive of "Aodh," the Celtic god of the sun and fire, giving the name its poetic meaning of "little fire." Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne, a seventh-century Irish monk who helped spread Christianity across northern England, lent the name lasting religious significance.

How do you pronounce Aidan?

Aidan is pronounced AY-dan. Common variations include Aiden, Aden, Aydin.

Is Aidan a boy name?

Yes, Aidan is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Aid, Ady.

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