Aaron: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Boy name origins & meanings

What does Aaron mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Hebrew: Exalted, strong, shining light
Egyptian: Warrior lion
Arabic: Messenger

Gender: Male

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Aaron is pronounced air-un

The name Aaron has its roots in Hebrew and ancient Egyptian cultures. Traditionally, it means "exalted" or "strong," reflecting qualities of leadership and courage. Aaron is most famously known from the Bible as the elder brother of Moses, who played a critical role in the Exodus narrative. The Hebrew version is Aharon, Aaran in Yiddish, and Haroun or Harun in Arabic.

Boy name variations

Family name origins & meanings

Mainly Jewish: from the Biblical Hebrew personal name Aharon, which was borne by the first high priest of the Israelites, the brother of Moses (Exodus 4:14). Like Moses, it is probably of Egyptian origin, with a meaning no longer recoverable. In some countries Aaron was also a gentile personal name; not all occurrences of the surname are Jewish.

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Larry Mullen

Robert De Niro

Aaron in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

Aaron Hotchner from Criminal Minds - A dedicated FBI profiler and the unit chief of the Behavioral Analysis Unit.
Aaron Burr from Hamilton - A central character in the musical, known for his complex personality and rivalry with Alexander Hamilton.
Aaron Stampler from Primal Fear - A seemingly innocent altar boy with a dark secret.
Aaron Littleton from Lost - The infant son of Claire, born on the mysterious island.
Aaron Cross from The Bourne Legacy - An operative in the black ops program, featuring in the Bourne series.

Popularity of the Name Aaron

According to Social Security Administration data, the name Aaron has maintained a strong presence in the United States, consistently ranking within the top 100 names for boys over several decades. The name Aaron, of Hebrew origin meaning "high mountain" or "exalted," is notable for its Biblical roots as the brother of Moses in the Old Testament and the first High Priest of the Israelites This historical and religious significance has helped maintain its popularity among parents looking for a name with a strong, traditional background.

Notable Aarons include Aaron Burr, the third Vice President of the United States, known for his duel with Alexander Hamilton; and Aaron Copland, an influential American composer who contributed significantly to the world of music. In sports, Aaron Rodgers, the quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, stands out as a contemporary figure bearing the name. Actors with the name include Aaron Eckhart and Aaron Paul.

In fiction, Aaron has been a popular choice for various characters, demonstrating its adaptability across different genres. From Aaron Hotchner in the crime drama series Criminal Minds to Aaron Burr in the critically acclaimed musical Hamilton, the name is versatile enough to fit diverse character profiles, further contributing to its enduring appeal. The name also invokes the memory of Key and Peele's skit of mispronouncing names.