Ian

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Ian

Gender Boy
Origin Celtic
Letters 3
Syllables 1
Pronunciation EE-uhn

Ian, which has 3 letters and 1 syllable, is a male name of Celtic origin.

Meaning of Ian

God is gracious

Ian is a name of Scottish origin that means "God is gracious."

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Rate:
(2.3/5 from 18 votes)
Meaning God is gracious
Origin Celtic
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #75 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Common (Top 100)
Era 2000s name

Background & History of The Name Ian

The name 'Ian' is of Scottish origin and is derived from the name 'John', which means 'God is gracious'. It is a popular name among boys and is often used in Scotland, Ireland, and other English-speaking countries. Ian is traditionally pronounced as 'EE-an', but it can also be pronounced as 'EYE-an' or 'YAN' depending on the regional dialect. The name Ian has been used for centuries and has a rich history.

Historically, there have been many notable individuals named Ian who have made significant contributions in various fields. Ian Fleming, for example, was a renowned British author who created the iconic character James Bond. His spy novels became immensely popular around the world. Ian McKellen, on the other hand, is a highly acclaimed British actor with a distinguished career in both theater and film. He is known for his roles in movies like 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy and 'X-Men' series.

The name Ian has also been prominent in the sporting world. Ian Thorpe, an Australian swimmer, became one of the most successful athletes in Olympic history. With numerous gold medals to his name, Thorpe gained widespread recognition for his exceptional swimming abilities. Moreover, Ian Poulter, a professional golfer from England, has achieved great success on the PGA European Tour and has represented Europe in the prestigious Ryder Cup.

In conclusion, the name Ian holds a significant place in history, literature, entertainment, and sports. Its Scottish origin and meaning 'God is gracious' give it a timeless appeal. Whether pronounced as 'EE-an', 'EYE-an', or 'YAN', the name Ian continues to be a popular choice for parents worldwide.

Popularity Over Time

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

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