Ian vs Alexander

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Ian

Boy #75 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"God is gracious"

Origin: Scottish Gaelic

Scottish British Irish American

✓ All Clear

Boy #27 Most Popular 4 Syllables

"defender of men"

Origin: Greek alexein and aner

Greek English Russian Scottish German

✓ All Clear

Ian Rank #75

Alexander Rank #27

Alexander is more popular, ranked #27 vs #75 for Ian.

Is Ian or Alexander more popular?

Alexander is more popular, ranked #27 compared to Ian at #75 in the United States.

What do Ian and Alexander mean?

Ian means "God is gracious" (Scottish Gaelic origin). Alexander means "defender of men" (Greek alexein and aner origin).

Are Ian and Alexander boy or girl names?

Ian is primarily a boy name. Alexander is primarily a boy name.