What does Aidan mean and where does it come from?
Aidan is derived from the Irish name Aodhán, which is a diminutive of Aodh meaning 'fire.' The name is predominantly used in Ireland and Scotland, and it has seen a resurgence in popularity over the past few decades in various English-speaking countries. Aidan has masculine and feminine forms, with
Cultural significance
Aidan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of little fire.
Peak popularity
Reached #1010 in 2003 — currently #300 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Aidan?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Aidan?
Aidan works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Aidan Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Aidan Rose
Floral · soft ending
Aidan Mae
Sweet · timeless
Aidan Claire
French influence · crisp
Aidan Jane
Literary · strong
Aidan Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Aidan right now?
Holding steady — currently #300 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #300 | 1,113 | ▼ down 4 · -4% births |
| 2022 | #296 | 1,160 | ▼ down 10 · -4% births |
| 2021 | #286 | 1,208 | ▲ up 4726 · +4732% births |
| 2020 | #5012 | 25 | ▲ up 468 · +4% births |
| 2015 | #5480 | 24 | ▼ down 2158 · -51% births |
| 2010 | #3322 | 49 | ▼ down 1940 · -69% births |
| 2005 | #1382 | 156 | ▼ down 71 · +8% births |
| 2000 | #1311 | 145 | ▲ up 363 · +65% births |
| 1995 | #1674 | 88 | ▲ up 3950 · +450% births |
| 1990 | #5624 | 16 | ▼ down 178 · +23% births |
| 1985 | #5446 | 13 | ▲ up 596 · +18% births |
| 1980 | #6042 | 11 | — |
The story of Aidan
Aidan is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1973. More than 115,365 babies have been named Aidan since 1973. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6042 in 1980 to #300 in 2023. Aidan is used for both genders: 2% female and 98% male.
Names that peaked alongside Aidan in 2003:
Aidan by decade
Aidan peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1930s | 5 | |
| 1950s | 22 | |
| 1960s | 71 | |
| 1970s | 191 | |
| 1980s | 593 | |
| 1990s | 9,392 | |
| 2000s ★ | 78,097 | |
| 2010s | 25,656 | |
| 2020s | 1,338 | |
What are good nicknames for Aidan?
What names sound and feel like Aidan?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Aidan also consider these
How is Aidan written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Aidan
What does the name Aidan mean?
Aidan means "Little fire" — a name rooted in Ireland tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Aidan?
Aidan is currently ranked #300 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Aidan?
Aidan originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Aidan?
Aidan is a two-syllable name pronounced AY1 D IH1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Aidan more of a girl or boy name?
Aidan is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.