Ian is a boy's name of Scottish origin that has been widely used around the world. It is derived from the Scottish Gaelic word "Iain," which itself comes from the Latin name "John." The name John is ultimately derived from the Hebrew name "Yochanan," which means "God is gracious."
The name Ian has a long history, dating back to ancient times. In Scotland, it was often used as a diminutive of the name John. It became particularly popular in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, where it was often passed down through generations.
Over time, the name Ian spread beyond Scotland and became popular in other parts of the world. Today, it is widely recognized and used as a given name for boys. Some notable people who bear this name include American actor Ian Somerhalder and Australian singer-songwriter Ian Molly Meldrum.
While Ian has been associated with various traits and characteristics throughout history, its origins and true meaning lie in its derivation from the name John, which means "God is gracious." Ultimately, however, what a name signifies can vary greatly depending on cultural context, personal beliefs, and individual experiences.
The name Ian saw a significant rise in popularity from the mid-60s to the late 70s, peaking with 35 births in 1986. However, it has since declined, with fewer than 10 births per year recorded since 2014.