Ian is a distinctive boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #535 in 2024 with 72 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1996 with 253 births ranking #138. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 71.5%. In 2024, approximately 1 in every 3,858 boys born was named Ian. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Ian is the Scottish form of John and shares the meaning "God is gracious". It is short, crisp, and one of the most enduring quietly classic boys' names.
The name has long been used in Scotland and later spread widely through the English-speaking world. Its appeal comes from combining simplicity with genuine historical depth.