Eric vs Ian

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Eric

Boy #252 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"ever powerful"

Origin: Old Norse

Scandinavian English German French American

✓ All Clear

Boy #75 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"God is gracious"

Origin: Scottish Gaelic

Scottish British Irish American

✓ All Clear

Eric Rank #252

Ian Rank #75

Ian is more popular, ranked #75 vs #252 for Eric.

Is Eric or Ian more popular?

Ian is more popular, ranked #75 compared to Eric at #252 in the United States.

What do Eric and Ian mean?

Eric means "ever powerful" (Old Norse origin). Ian means "God is gracious" (Scottish Gaelic origin).

Are Eric and Ian boy or girl names?

Eric is primarily a boy name. Ian is primarily a boy name.