Aedan is a name of Irish origin, derived from the old Gaelic name Áedán. The name Áedán is composed of two elements: "áed" which means fire or noble and "án" which means little. Therefore, Aedan's meaning can be interpreted as "little fiery one" or "noble little one".
The name Aedan has a rich history in Irish mythology and literature. It was borne by several historical figures and legendary characters. One of the most notable was Saint Aidan (also known as Eanna), who was an early Christian missionary and the first Bishop of Lindisfarne, Northumbria, in the 7th century.
The name Aedan is also associated with the O'Kennedy clan, a prominent Irish family that descended from Áedán son of Dermot Mac Murchadha, the King of Ossory. The O'Kennedy's were known for their bravery and warrior spirit, which further adds to the noble connotation of the name Aedan.
In recent times, Aedan has gained popularity as a given name for boys. It is often associated with strength, courage, and nobility due to its historical context. Despite its Irish origin, the name Aedan can be found in various cultures and countries around the world, reflecting its universal appeal.
The name Aedan saw a significant increase in popularity between 1988 and 2006, with a steady rise from just 5 births per year in the late 1980s to a peak of 278 births in 2006. However, since then, its popularity has declined significantly, with only 34 births recorded in 2023. Overall, there have been a total of 3778 births named Aedan between 1988 and 2023.