Aiden

♂ Boy

Pronounced AY-den /ˈeɪdən/High

Meaning: Little fire; diminutive of Aodh (fire)High

In 30 seconds: An Irish classic meaning 'little fire,' anglicized from Aodhán. One of the most popular boys' names in the early 2000s U.S., now a modern staple.

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Origin HighIrish Gaelic

MeaningLittle fire; diminutive of Aodh (fire)

Peak year2009

Total births (all-time)≈ 195,093

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Aiden derives from the Old Irish Aodhán, a diminutive of Aodh, the ancient Irish god of fire. The historical Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne (died 651 AD) carried the name to Northumbria, making it known across the British Isles. Aodh was one of the most common names in medieval Ireland, giving rise to many anglicized forms.

The modern English spelling Aiden rose sharply in the U.S. during the 1990s and 2000s, peaking around 2010 in the top 10. It spawned a wave of rhyming names (Jayden, Brayden, Kayden). While slightly past peak, Aiden remains among the top 20 and is considered a modern classic with genuine Gaelic roots.

Did you know? Aiden is a spelling variant of the Irish Aodhán, which honors Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne, the 7th-century monk who spread Christianity across northern England.

Variations

AidanAodhánAdenAyden

Nicknames

Aid

Famous Bearers

★Aidan Turner (1983–)
Irish actor, known for Poldark and The Hobbit.

If you like Aiden…

Liam— top-ranked Irish-origin boys' name with the same modern classic feel

Finn— short, punchy Irish boys' name also rooted in mythology

Declan— another Irish saint's name with a strong, modern appeal

Caden— rhyming surname-style name that peaked in the same era

Frequently Asked

What does the name Aiden mean?

Aiden is an Irish Gaelic name meaning 'little fire,' a diminutive of Aodh, the Celtic god of fire.

How do you pronounce Aiden?

It's said AY-den /ˈeɪdən/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Aiden a boy or girl name?

Aiden is used almost entirely as a boys' name in the U.S.

How popular is Aiden?

Aiden peaked in the U.S. top 10 around 2010 and remains a top-20 boys' name.