Aidan – Name Meaning
Aidan is a name of Irish and Gaelic origin, derived from the Old Irish Aodhán. It is a popular name in both Ireland and Scotland, as well as other English-speaking countries. The name Aidan is often associated with the meaning “little fire” or “fiery one”.
History of the Name
The name Aidan has been around since at least the 7th century when it was used by Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne, an Irish monk who founded a monastery on the island of Lindisfarne in Northumbria. He was known for his missionary work and his devotion to Christianity. The name Aidan has also been used by several kings throughout history, including King Aidan of Dalriada, who ruled over parts of Scotland and Ireland in the 6th century.
The popularity of the name Aidan has grown steadily over the years, particularly in the United States where it first appeared on the Social Security Administration’s list of most popular baby names in 1997. Since then, it has consistently ranked among the top 100 names for boys in America.
Popularity
Aidan is currently one of the most popular names for boys in both Ireland and Scotland. In 2019, it was ranked as the fourth most popular name for boys in Ireland and the sixth most popular name for boys in Scotland. In England and Wales, it was ranked as the 24th most popular name for boys in 2019.
In the United States, Aidan has been consistently ranked among the top 100 names for boys since 1997. In 2019, it was ranked as the 44th most popular name for boys in America.
Famous People Named Aidan
There are many famous people who have been given this name over the years, including:
- Aidan Quinn, an American actor best known for his roles in films such as Desperately Seeking Susan (1985) and Legends of the Fall (1994).
- Aidan Gillen, an Irish actor best known for his roles in television series such as Game of Thrones (2011-2019) and Peaky Blinders (2013-present).
- Aidan Turner, an Irish actor best known for his roles in television series such as Being Human (2008-2013) and Poldark (2015-2019).
Conclusion
The name Aidan is a popular choice among parents looking for a strong yet meaningful name for their son. Its roots can be traced back to ancient Ireland and Scotland, where it has been used by kings and saints alike. Today, it remains a popular choice among parents all over the world.
