The name Aiden is of Irish origin and is derived from the Irish Gaelic name "Aodhán", which means "little fire". The name has been used for centuries in Ireland but gained popularity worldwide during the late 20th century.
Historically, the name Aiden has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne was a bishop who established the monastery on the island of Lindisfarne off the northeast coast of England in the early 7th century. He was known for his piety and his work in spreading Christianity among the Anglo-Saxons.
In popular culture, the name Aiden has been used in various movies, TV shows, books, and other forms of media. For example, Aiden Turner played the role of Kili in "The Hobbit" film series, while Aidan Quinn portrayed Thomas Sullivan in the movie "Primal Fear". These portrayals have contributed to the name's rising popularity.
Overall, the name Aiden has a rich history and cultural significance, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for a strong, meaningful name for their child. Its meaning of "little fire" also adds to its appeal, suggesting energy, passion, and warmth.
The name Aiden experienced a significant increase in popularity between the late 1980s and early 2000s, with a notable spike around the year 2007 (176 births). However, it appears that its popularity has been declining since then, reaching a recent low of 25 births in 2023. Overall, there have been 2095 babies named Aiden from 1988 to 2023.