Names Ending in -ian for Boys

Once popular (and still familiar) in Norway, Stian could make an interesting choice for anyone with northern European roots. It is a modern form of the Norse Stígandr, with its appealing, wanderer meaning.

As the ancient saint's name Cassian becomes more widely known and more popular, variations will proliferate. Kasian is one but creates pronunciation questions.

Ancient Irish saint's name that's unlikely, because of its similarity to "ninny," to join cousin Finian in popularity.

Dalian is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Welsh elements 'dal' meaning 'to hold' and 'ian' meaning 'God is gracious,' suggesting 'God holds graciously.' Alternatively, it could relate to the Chinese city of Dalian, making it a place name turned personal name. Some consider it a variation of names like Dallen or Dylan. The name has a strong, melodic quality with its balanced syllables. Dalian remains quite rare in Western naming practices but may appeal to parents seeking a distinctive name with cross-cultural resonance. Its uncommon status gives it a fresh, contemporary feel despite potential ancient roots.

David plus Damian (or David plus Ian or David plus Darrian) equals this hybrid name. It has been in and out of the US Top 1000 since 2004, though both this spelling and alternative Davion were out of favor in 2023. Davian Clarke is a Jamaican Olympic athlete.

Sabian is a relative of Sabin and Sabina, both referring to the Sabines, an ancient Italian people. Sabin is also a Quranic name of one of the "People of the Book". About a dozen baby boys were named Sabin and another dozen named Sabian in the US last year, making it a rare name with historic roots.

Tilian is a modern masculine name with possible roots in various origins. It may be a variation of Tillian or derived from elements like 'til' meaning 'to strive or fight' in Germanic languages. The name could also relate to Tilly (a diminutive of Matilda) with the masculine suffix -an added. Tilian has gained some contemporary usage, particularly appealing to parents seeking a unique name with a soft yet strong sound. In popular culture, Tilian Pearson is known as the lead vocalist for the American post-hardcore band Dance Gavin Dance, which may contribute to the name's modern appeal. The name carries connotations of uniqueness and individuality.

A variant of Caelan, from a Gaelic name meaning "slender".

A Latin clan name that may rise again along with other things Roman.

The surname of the protagonist of Joseph Heller’s satirical World War II novel Catch 22 and its sequel Closing Time, by which he is exclusively called by the narrator and other characters. It is described in the novel as "an odious, alien, distasteful name… not at all like such clean, crisp, honest, American names as Cathcart, Peckem and Dreedle." Heller took the name from one of his own colleagues in the Air Force, an Assyrian called Yohannan.

A cheerful sounding name with plenty of strength, this relative of Jove was borne by a 4th century Roman emperor. It might appeal to those who like the mythological and space-related aspect of Jove but was something that could also blend in with the likes of Adrian, Cassian, and Julian.

Wian, oe of the most popular of all Afrikaans names, has seldom been heard outside South Africa. It would doubtless prompt countless pronunciation issues, but might just be warm and friendly enough to be worth it.

Casian is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. In Romanian tradition, it derives from the Latin name Cassianus, meaning 'empty' or 'vain,' but has evolved beyond these original connotations. The name is associated with Saint Cassian of Imola, a Christian martyr and teacher. In other cultural contexts, it may be linked to the Latin 'cassis' meaning 'helmet,' suggesting protection or strength. Casian has gained moderate popularity in Romania and nearby countries, while remaining relatively uncommon elsewhere. The name has a contemporary sound while maintaining historical connections, making it appealing to parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible. With its soft consonants and balanced syllables, Casian offers a melodic quality that works well across multiple languages.

A Welsh saint’s name, possibly deriving from the Old Welsh word for "red".

Medieval German form of George

A Julian translation that would be easy to wear — Yulian strikes the proper balance between unusual and familiar. Yuli is a common nickname in Russia.

A Welsh saint, the son or grandson of a local king called Caw/Cai. It seems that Caian may be a derivative of that name, which is derived from Caius "rejoice". A church at Tregaian in Anglesey is named for St Caian.

Jian is a meaningful masculine name with Chinese origins, though it appears in multiple cultures. In Chinese, depending on the character used, it can mean 'healthy,' 'strong,' 'persistent,' or 'sword/sharp,' making it a name rich with positive connotations. The name is pronounced approximately as 'jen' or 'jyen' in Mandarin Chinese. While traditional in China, Jian has gained some international recognition as cultural boundaries in naming become more fluid. Its brevity makes it accessible to non-Chinese speakers while maintaining its authentic cultural roots. The name appeals to parents seeking a meaningful cross-cultural option that combines simplicity with depth. Jian's growing presence reflects increasing appreciation for names that honor heritage while functioning well in multicultural settings.