Adrian

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Adrian

Gender Boy
Origin Latin
Letters 6
Syllables 2
Pronunciation AY-dree-uhn

Adrian, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Latin origin.

Meaning of Adrian

From Hadria

Adrian is a name of Latin origin meaning "from Hadria". It is derived from the Latin Hadrianus, the name of a Roman Emperor who ruled from 117-138 A.D. It is often thought to mean "dark one" or "man from the sea".

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Meaning From Hadria
Origin Latin
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #72 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Common (Top 100)
Era 2000s name

Background & History of The Name Adrian

The name Adrian has ancient origins and has been used by various cultures throughout history. It is derived from the Latin name Hadrianus, which was a Roman family name derived from the city of Hadria in northern Italy. The name Hadrianus itself is believed to have come from the Greek name Hadrianos, meaning "man from Adria." Adria was a coastal town in northeastern Italy, and its name likely originated from the Adriatic Sea, which it borders.

In Roman times, the name Adrianus was not very common, but it gained popularity during the Middle Ages. One reason for its growing popularity was due to Saint Adrian of Canterbury, who was a popular saint in Western Christianity. Saint Adrian of Canterbury was a scholar and abbot who lived in the 8th century and played a crucial role in establishing the Church of England. He is often depicted as a man with a sword and books, representing his intellectual and spiritual pursuits.

Over time, the name Adrian spread across European countries and became widely adopted. It gained prominence in English-speaking countries during the 19th century and has remained a popular choice for parents ever since. The name has a masculine feel and is associated with strong, confident individuals.

Today, Adrian is a versatile name that transcends various cultures and is used in different forms around the world. Variations of the name include Adriano in Italian, Adrián in Spanish, Adrien in French, and Hadrian in Latin. It is often used as both a first name and a surname, making it a versatile choice for many families.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Adrian over the years.

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