Aine

AWN-ya
Irish
"brightness, splendor"

Aine Origin and Meaning

The name Aine is a girl's name of Irish origin meaning "brightness, splendor".

More commonly seen here as Anya, this traditional yet unique Irish name belonged to the queen of the Munster fairies and is sprinkled throughout Irish folklore as an early Celtic goddess of summer and prosperity. One of the most popular baby names in Ireland, Aine's spelling and pronunciation might seem simple but could prove confusing in the U.S.

When the British cracked down on authentic Irish names in the seventeenth century, Aine was "translated" as Ann. Now, the original Aine or Anya is one of the prime goddess names for baby girls.

# 649 on Nameberry

Aine Rank in Nameberry Top 1000

Aine Popularity

Famous People Named Aine

  • Áine Minogue
    Irish harpist and singer
  • Aine Lawlor
    Irish radio and TV presenter
  • Aine Ni Mhuiri
    Irish actress

Aine in Pop Culture

  • Aine Elessedil
    minor character in The Shannara Chronicles by Terry Brooks
  • Aine of Kockaine
    Fairy,Queen in Irish mythology

Aine in Nameberry Forums