These two male names are still little known so far, the expert in first names Stéphanie Rapoport tells us.
When the trends in terms of first names are taking shape from year to year, it is not uncommon to see some first names for a place and gain in popularity when they were previously rare, or even completely unknown . Influenced by social facts, culture or striking personalities, they go from shade to light in no time. A discreet first name can suddenly seduce many parents and climb in the rankings, until it becomes a vogue choice. This is what could happen for two male names, said Stéphanie Rapoport, author of The official first names (First editions).
Indeed, by preparing the 2026 edition of the famous first name guide, the specialist analyzed the latest French civil status registers and drawn her first predictions, which will then be confirmed or not by the next data of the ‘INSEE (National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies). “I’m not going to go on the national top 20, but in any case, in the top 30, there are two Arab-Muslim first names that stand out”she explained to us. “They are new in the top 30 and are experiencing strong growth.” These are the first names Ayden and Imran. And by leaning over their etymology and their meaning, you quickly understand why.
The first name Ayden has Celtic and Persian origins. Derived from the Irish name Aodhán, himself from Aodh, which means “fire” in Gaelic, it was once carried by important figures of Celtic mythology and history. This first name symbolizes light, heat and energy. In parallel, Ayden is also close to the first name Aydin, of Turkish origin, which means “lit” or “intelligent”. This dimension adds a positive connotation linked to wisdom and knowledge. Over the years, Ayden has become a modern first name, appreciated for its soft and dynamic sound. Its spelling can vary (Aiden, Aidan, Aydan), but its meaning remains the same: a bright first name, associated with strength and liveliness. As for the Imran first name, of Arab origin, it has a strong spiritual and historical meaning. In the Arabic language, it means “prosperity”, “settlement” or “long life”. It is notably mentioned in the Koran as the name of the father of Mary (Mariam), mother of Jesus (Issa), which gives him great importance in Islamic traditions.
This first name is also associated with a respected personality in Arab and Muslim cultures, evoking wisdom, piety and stability. Very popular in the countries of the Middle East and North Africa, Imran is today adopted in many cultures, attractive by its deep meaning and harmonious musicality. They each embody strong and timeless values in their own way. These two first names have everything to seduce future parents in search of a symbolic first name!