An - Male Name Meaning and Origin
- Origin
- Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Dutch
- Meaning
- Peace, tranquil, safe, secure, comfort, ease
- Pronunciation
- AHN
- Gender
- Unisex
- Variations
- An (Dutch diminutive of Anna)
- Notable Namesakes
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Etymology & Heritage
The name An has origins in multiple cultures, giving it diverse meanings and connotations. In Chinese culture, An translates to peace or tranquil, hinting towards a serene and calm nature. It's a name that evokes a sense of harmony and balance.
In Vietnamese, An means safe or secure, mirroring similar sentiments of calmness and security found in the Chinese understanding. However, it also introduces an additional meaning connected to protection and safety. Meanwhile, in Korean, An is a commonly used surname and can mean comfort or ease.
Addressing its usage in Western cultures, An is less frequently seen as a standalone name but often features as a common syllable in names across various languages. However, it does have a presence in Dutch, where An is a diminutive of Anna (itself deriving from Hebrew, meaning grace or favour), typically used for females. This further expands the cultural reach and diversity of the name An.
Character & Essence
From a Vietnamese perspective, a person named An could symbolize a protector or guardian, embodying qualities of safety and security. As a Korean first name, it gives a person an unsung quality of strength, reliability, and comfort.
Overall, the name An carries a strong essence of peace, security, and comfort across various cultures. Its brevity and simplicity further lend it an air of elegance and minimalist beauty.
Cultural & Contemporary Significance
The name's multicultural heritage reflects the interconnected nature of East Asian naming traditions, where similar phonetic sounds carry comparable meanings of tranquility and protection across different languages and cultures.