Aileen – Name Meaning
Aileen is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic Aibhilin, which means “light bearer” or “radiant one.” It is also sometimes spelled as Aylin, Ayleen, or Eileen. The name has been popular in Ireland since the Middle Ages and was brought to Scotland by Irish settlers in the 16th century. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular in the United States.
History and Origin
The name Aileen is believed to have originated in Ireland during the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Gaelic Aibhilin, which means “light bearer” or “radiant one.” The name was brought to Scotland by Irish settlers in the 16th century and has been popular there ever since. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular in the United States.
Popularity
Aileen is a relatively uncommon name in the United States, but it has seen a steady increase in popularity over the past few decades. According to Social Security Administration data, it was ranked at #845 on their list of most popular baby girl names in 2019. It is more popular in other countries such as Scotland and Ireland.
Famous People Named Aileen
There are several famous people who bear the name Aileen, including:
- Aileen Wuornos – American serial killer
- Aileen Quinn – American actress best known for her role as Annie in the 1982 film adaptation of Annie
- Aileen Getty – American philanthropist and socialite
- Aileen Lee – American venture capitalist and founder of Cowboy Ventures
Variations of the Name
The name Aileen can be spelled several different ways, including: Aylin, Ayleen, Eileen, and Eilean.