An

Origin & Etymology

An is a classic Vietnamese and Chinese name rooted in the character 安 (ān/an), meaning peace, safety, and tranquility. In Vietnamese it carries the wish that a child's life will be peaceful and free from hardship. The character 安 appears in thousands of Asian place names, compound names, and proverbs across East and Southeast Asia, making this one of the most culturally universal names in the region.

Popularity Story

An remains a common traditional name in Vietnam and among Vietnamese diaspora communities worldwide. Its simplicity — one syllable, one clear meaning — has kept it relevant and beloved across generations, even as longer compound names have grown popular.

Cultural Significance

The character 安 is one of the most auspicious in East Asian cultures, representing the deepest parental hope: that a child will be safe and live in peace. It appears in names across Vietnam, China, Japan, and Korea, crossing linguistic families while carrying the same essential meaning.

Fun Facts

• An is one of the most common given names in Vietnam
• The character 安 means peace in Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese
• An appears in hundreds of compound names across East and Southeast Asia

An in Other Languages