ThinkabaraIan: meaning and origin
Ian
“God is gracious; the Scottish form of John”
- Gender
- 👦 Boy
- Origin
- 🏴 Scottish
- Letters · syllables
- 3 · 1
- Starts with
- I
About the name Ian
Ian is a boy’s name from the Scottish tradition. Its meaning is “god is gracious; the Scottish form of John”. Names from Scottish Gaelic and Scottish places and clans — like Isla, Logan, Callum and Ainsley.
It’s a classic: a name that has been used for generations and still feels fresh.
More names with a similar meaning: names that mean gift of god.
Tips before you choose
- Say the full name out loud with your last name, and with any middle name.
- Check the initials — and what they spell.
- Think about nicknames kids might make from it.
- Write it down: is the spelling easy for teachers and friends?
More Scottish names
- Angus 👦One strength · Scottish
- Callum 👦Dove; from Saint Columba · Scottish
- Cameron 🧒Crooked nose · Scottish
- Duncan 👦Dark warrior · Scottish
- Graham 👦Gravelly homestead · Scottish
- Knox 👦Round hill · Scottish
- Logan 👦Little hollow · Scottish
Sibling name ideas (Scottish, girls)
- Ainsley 👧One’s own meadow · Scottish
- Fiona 👧Fair, white · Scottish
- Isla 👧Island; from the Scottish island of Islay · Scottish
- Paisley 👧From the Scottish town of Paisley; also the swirly pattern · Scottish
More boy names starting with I
- Isaac 👦He will laugh · Hebrew
- Isaiah 👦God is salvation · Hebrew
- Ivan 👦God is gracious; a form of John · Slavic
Questions and answers
What does the name Ian mean?
Ian is a name of Scottish origin. It means: god is gracious; the Scottish form of John.
Is Ian a boy or girl name?
Ian is usually given to boys.
How many syllables does Ian have?
Ian has 3 letters and about 1 syllable.