Meaning: Possibly from Basque eider (beautiful) or from Old Norse aedhr (the eider duck); exact etymology uncertainMedium
In 30 seconds: A name of uncertain Basque or Norse origin. Basque sources suggest it means 'beautiful,' while the Norse eider duck (aedhr) shares its sound. It is used primarily in Basque Country (Spain/France) and among Basque diaspora.
MeaningPossibly from Basque eider (beautiful) or from Old Norse aedhr (the eider duck); exact etymology uncertain
U.S. rank (2024)#1020 ↗ Rising
2024 U.S. births217 boys (0.01% of U.S. boys)
Peak year2024
Total births (all-time)≈ 538
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Eider may derive from Basque eider (beautiful) or from Old Norse aedhr (eider duck). It is a given name in the Basque Country of Spain and France. Its appearance in U.S. birth data is likely from Basque diaspora communities or appreciation for the distinctive sound.
Eider appeared in U.S. boys' birth data in the 2020s and ranked #1020 for boys in 2024.
Did you know? The eider duck (Somateria mollissima) is the source of eiderdown — the world's most prized natural insulating material, harvested from the duck's own nest lining without harming the birds. Iceland manages the world's largest eider duck farming tradition.
Overall data confidence 65%
U.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data
Variations
Eidor
Nicknames
Ei
Famous Bearers
Famous bearers coming soon.
If you like Eider…
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Aitor— Basque masculine name (good ancestor) in the same tradition
Andoni— Basque form of Anthony in the same Basque naming space
Eneko— Basque masculine name in the same tradition
Mikel— Basque form of Michael in the same tradition
Frequently Asked
What does the name Eider mean?
Eider may mean 'beautiful' in Basque or relate to the Norse eider duck (aedhr). The exact etymology is uncertain.
How do you pronounce Eider?
It's said EYE-der — two syllables, stress on the first.
