Aidan

Aidan is predominantly a male first name, considered an anglicized variant of the Gaelic, Irish, and Scottish name Aodhan (Aodhán). This, in turn, is a diminutive form of Aodh, which has its roots in the Old Irish name Aed (Áed).

What does the name Aidan mean?

The name Aidan directly translates to "the little fire" or "the little flame." Its roots lie in the Old Irish term áed, which means "the fire." In early Irish history, Aidan was a popular name for boys, carried by many figures from Irish mythology as well as several high kings. Later, it was traditionally translated into English as Hugh. The name experienced a revival in the 1960s. Alternatives include Aedh, Aedd, Aodhagan, Aedan, and Aeden. Variants include Aiden, Aydan, Ayden, Aden, Aayden, and Aaiden. Female variants are Aednat, Aidana, and Aine. A well-known bearer of this name is the Irish actor Aidan Quinn.

Where does the name Aidan come from?

The name Aidan has both male and female origins and comes from the Old Irish and Celtic language family. Its meaning is "the little fire." The etymology derives from the Old Irish word áed for "the fire." The name is used in English, Irish, and Scottish languages.

How do you pronounce Aidan?

The pronunciation of Aidan is soft and flowing, with two syllables. It is usually pronounced as "Ay-dan" [ˈeɪdən], with the first syllable starting with a diphthong that conveys movement. The second syllable ends gently on an n. This harmonious structure gives the name a modern touch. Aidan feels international and vibrant – a name with a clear line and fresh appeal.

When is the name day of Aidan?

The name day of Aidan is celebrated on June 9 and August 31 to honor the monk Aidan of Lindisfarne.

Popularity

In Germany, Aidan enjoys high popularity and currently ranks 990th on the list of the most common male first names. Its best placement was in 2009 at 613th. Over the last ten years, Aidan has been given as a first name about 510 times, placing it 864th in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 851st. The global popularity and frequency of Aidan are reflected in its rankings in various countries.

Nicknames & pet names

Ad / Addy / Adi / Aid / Aidy / An / Any / Dan

Similar first names

Famous people

• Aidan Baker (* 1974), Canadian multi-instrumentalist, experimental musician, and author
• Aidan Burley (* 1979), British politician
• Aidan Charlie Louis Davis, British dancer
• Aidan Chippendale, English footballer
• Aidan Coffey, Irish musician
• Aidan Coleman, poet from Australia
• Aidan Collins, English footballer
• Aidan Connolly, British footballer
• Aidan Devine, British actor
• Aidan Fennelly, Grenadian footballer
• Aidan Gallagher, American actor
• Aidan Gemme, actor / musical performer
• Aidan Gillen, Irish actor
• Aidan Gould, actor from America
• Aidan Grant, footballer from Great Britain
• Aidan Hawken, American singer
• Aidan Heaney, British footballer
• Aidan Higgins, writer from Ireland
• Aidan J. David, British actor
• Aidan James, musician from the USA