Ean

Ean is a modern spelling of Ian, the Scottish form of John. Through that family it traces back to a Hebrew name meaning “God is gracious.” The short written form can therefore carry the same religious or family connection as the much more familiar John.

The initial E helps some English readers recognize the intended opening sound, whereas Ian and Iain preserve the more established Scottish spellings. Singer Bo Bice chose Ean for his son, providing a public example of this particular form. For a family honoring an Ian, Ean can keep the spoken connection while making the written name distinct; it does not change the older meaning.