Ian is a popular boys' name in United States, ranking #75 in 2024 with 4,547 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2005 with 6,688 births ranking #68. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 16.0%. In 2024, approximately 1 in every 377 boys born was named Ian. FALLING Recent data shows the name is currently falling.
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.