Find out how popular the first name Aethan has been for the last 18 years (from 2006 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Aethan by gender

Based on the last 18 years of data, Aethan is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Aethan.

The history of the first name Aethan

The name Aethan has its origins in the ancient Celtic languages, particularly in the Brittonic branch of the Celtic linguistic family. It is believed to have derived from the Proto-Celtic root *aitos, meaning "fire" or "ardent," which later evolved into the Old Welsh word aethon, meaning "fiery one" or "zealous."

The earliest recorded usage of the name Aethan can be traced back to the 6th century CE in the ancient British kingdom of Rheged, located in what is now northern England and southern Scotland. It was a popular name among the ruling class and nobility of the time, often given to sons as a symbol of strength, courage, and passion.

One of the most notable historical figures bearing the name Aethan was a Welsh prince who lived in the late 6th century. He was the son of King Cynfelyn ap Rhiwallon of Rheged and is mentioned in several ancient Welsh genealogies and chronicles. Unfortunately, not much is known about his life and deeds, but his name has been preserved in these historical records.

In the 9th century, an Irish monk named Aethan of Argyll is believed to have lived and worked in the monasteries of Scotland. He is credited with transcribing and preserving several important religious texts and manuscripts from that era, although few details about his life have survived.

During the Middle Ages, the name Aethan was particularly popular in Wales and Cornwall, where it was often anglicized to variants like Ethan or Aidan. One notable bearer of the name was Aethan ap Rhys (c. 1150-1210), a Welsh nobleman and military leader who fought against the Norman invaders in the late 12th century.

In the 16th century, an English scholar and translator named Aethan Wilson (c. 1530-1595) gained recognition for his work in translating ancient Greek texts into English. He was part of the intellectual circles of Elizabethan England and contributed to the spread of classical knowledge during the Renaissance period.

While the name Aethan has fallen out of widespread use in modern times, it has remained a part of the cultural heritage and history of the Celtic nations, particularly in Wales and Cornwall. Its meaning and significance as a name associated with fire, passion, and strength have been preserved throughout the centuries.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Aethan was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Aethan, please contact us.

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