What does Aileen mean and where does it come from?
Aileen is of Gaelic origin and has been popular in Ireland since the 20th century. The name gained traction in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, during the 19th and 20th centuries. Its association with nobility and brightness makes it an appealing choice. Notable figures
Cultural significance
Aileen has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of noble, bright; the radiant one..
Peak popularity
Reached #289 in 1926 — currently #798 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Aileen?
Aileen works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Aileen Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Aileen Rose
Floral · soft ending
Aileen Mae
Sweet · timeless
Aileen Claire
French influence · crisp
Aileen Jane
Literary · strong
Aileen Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Aileen right now?
Falling — down 79 spots — currently #798 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #798 | 352 | ▼ down 79 · -14% births |
| 2022 | #719 | 407 | ▼ down 41 · -5% births |
| 2021 | #678 | 429 | ▲ up 17 · +7% births |
| 2020 | #695 | 401 | ▼ down 181 · -34% births |
| 2015 | #514 | 609 | ▼ down 46 · -6% births |
| 2010 | #468 | 645 | ▲ up 16 · +2% births |
| 2005 | #484 | 632 | ▲ up 42 · +26% births |
| 2000 | #526 | 501 | ▲ up 306 · +113% births |
| 1995 | #832 | 235 | ▲ up 25 · +2% births |
| 1990 | #857 | 230 | ▼ down 131 · -3% births |
| 1985 | #726 | 237 | ▲ up 52 · +12% births |
| 1980 | #778 | 212 | ▲ up 31 · +25% births |
| 1975 | #809 | 169 | ▼ down 138 · -29% births |
| 1970 | #671 | 237 | ▼ down 61 · -7% births |
| 1965 | #610 | 254 | — |
The story of Aileen
Aileen has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 35,711 babies have received this name. Aileen is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Aileen in 1926:
Aileen by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 63 | |
| 1890s | 332 | |
| 1900s | 818 | |
| 1910s | 2,831 | |
| 1920s | 4,648 | |
| 1930s | 2,157 | |
| 1940s | 1,628 | |
| 1950s | 1,956 | |
| 1960s | 2,309 | |
| 1970s | 1,780 | |
| 1980s | 2,355 | |
| 1990s | 3,258 | |
| 2000s ★ | 5,817 | |
| 2010s | 5,358 | |
| 2020s | 401 | |
What are good nicknames for Aileen?
ENGLISH
EvalineEvalynEveleenEvelineEvelynEvieEvvie
What names sound and feel like Aileen?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Aileen also consider these
How is Aileen written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Aileen
What does the name Aileen mean?
Aileen means "Noble, bright; the radiant one." — 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 Aileen?
Aileen is currently ranked #798 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 Aileen?
Aileen 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.
Is Aileen more of a girl or boy name?
Aileen is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
What are good nicknames for Aileen?
Aileen naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.