What does Aiden mean and where does it come from?
Aiden is derived from the Irish name Aodhán, which is a diminutive form of Aodh, meaning 'fire'. While Aiden is traditionally a male name, it has become increasingly popular for females in recent years, particularly in the United States. The name gained fame thanks to popular culture and notable fig
Cultural significance
Aiden has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of little fire.
Peak popularity
Reached #9 in 2010 — currently #40 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Aiden?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Aiden?
Aiden works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Aiden Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Aiden Rose
Floral · soft ending
Aiden Mae
Sweet · timeless
Aiden Claire
French influence · crisp
Aiden Jane
Literary · strong
Aiden Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Aiden right now?
Declining — down 11 spots — currently #40 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #40 | 6,692 | ▼ down 11 · -15% births |
| 2022 | #29 | 7,835 | ▼ down 3 · -6% births |
| 2021 | #26 | 8,304 | ▼ down 2 · -3% births |
| 2020 | #24 | 8,534 | ▼ down 11 · -37% births |
| 2015 | #13 | 13,461 | ▼ down 4 · -13% births |
| 2010 | #9 | 15,538 | ▲ up 41 · +71% births |
| 2005 | #50 | 9,083 | ▲ up 274 · +931% births |
| 2000 | #324 | 881 | ▲ up 616 · +529% births |
| 1995 | #940 | 140 | ▲ up 2766 · +775% births |
| 1990 | #3706 | 16 | ▼ down 1017 · -16% births |
| 1985 | #2689 | 19 | ▲ up 1988 · +171% births |
| 1975 | #4677 | 7 | ▼ down 25 · +17% births |
| 1970 | #4652 | 6 | — |
The story of Aiden
Aiden is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1970. It peaked at #9 in 2010, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. More than 225,071 babies have been named Aiden since 1970. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4652 in 1970 to #40 in 2023. Aiden is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Aiden in 2010:
Aiden by decade
Aiden peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 26 | |
| 1980s | 84 | |
| 1990s | 1,801 | |
| 2000s | 84,644 | |
| 2010s ★ | 129,936 | |
| 2020s | 8,580 | |
What are good nicknames for Aiden?
Famous people named Aiden
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Aidan (Saint)
Irish monk and bishop who founded the monastery of Lindisfarne, known as the Apostle of Northumbria
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Aidan Turner
Irish actor known for playing Kili in The Hobbit trilogy and the lead in Poldark
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Aidan Quinn
Irish-American actor known for Legends of the Fall and Elementary
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Aidan Gallagher
American actor and environmental activist known for playing Number Five in The Umbrella Academy
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Aidan (Sex and the City)
The beloved furniture maker and love interest of Carrie Bradshaw in the iconic series
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Aiden?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Aiden also consider these
How is Aiden written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Aiden
What does the name Aiden mean?
Aiden means "little fire" — a name rooted in American 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 Aiden?
Aiden is currently ranked #40 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Aiden?
Aiden originates from American tradition. American 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 Aiden?
Aiden is a two-syllable name pronounced AY1 D AA1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Aiden more of a girl or boy name?
Aiden is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.