IPA Pronunciation

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The name Ai (愛) originates from Japanese and Chinese, meaning 'love' or 'affection.' It combines characters symbolizing deep emotional bonds and compassion. Historically, Ai is a popular feminine name in East Asia, embodying warmth and tenderness, often given to daughters to express parental love and hopes for a loving nature.

Cultural Significance of Ai

In Japanese and Chinese cultures, Ai holds profound significance as it directly translates to 'love.' It is often chosen for girls to symbolize the parents’ hopes for a kind, caring, and affectionate child. The character 愛 is widely used in literature and art to express deep emotional resonance, making Ai a name that carries poetic and emotional weight across generations.

Ai Name Popularity in 2025

Today, Ai remains a popular choice in Japan and China, appreciated for its simplicity and powerful meaning. The name fits well in a global context due to its easy pronunciation and meaningful roots. With rising interest in unique, meaningful names worldwide, Ai has gained international appeal, especially among parents wanting a name that reflects love and emotional depth.

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Popular Nicknames10

AiaAikoAi-chanAimiAinaAiriAi-nyAi-pieAi-bearAi-star
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International Variations12

AikoAi-chanAi-LiAyaAi-MeiEyiAi-NaAi-YuAi-LinAi-HuaAi-RenAh

Similar Names You Might Love11

Name Energy & Essence

The name Ai carries the essence of “Love, affection” from Japanese/Chinese tradition. Names beginning with "A" often embody qualities of ambition, leadership, and new beginnings.

Symbolism

Cultural Significance

In Japanese and Chinese cultures, Ai holds profound significance as it directly translates to 'love.' It is often chosen for girls to symbolize the parents’ hopes for a kind, caring, and affectionate child. The character 愛 is widely used in literature and art to express deep emotional resonance, making Ai a name that carries poetic and emotional weight across generations.

Ai of Han

Emperor of the Han dynasty in China known for political reforms and cultural influence.

Ai Qing

Renowned Chinese poet influential in modern Chinese literature and culture.

Ai Weiwei

Contemporary Chinese artist and activist famous for his provocative works and political engagement.

Parents: Rinko Kikuchi and Yuji Sakamoto

Amor

🌐Spanish

Amour

🌐French

Liebe

🌐German

Amore

🌐Italian

愛 (Ai)

🌐Japanese

爱 (Ài)

🌐Chinese

حب (Hubb)

🌐Arabic

Fun Fact About Ai

Ai is one of the shortest names in the world with such a profound and universal meaning, making it both simple and deeply symbolic.

Personality Traits for Ai

Individuals named Ai are often seen as empathetic, warm, and compassionate. They tend to be nurturing and emotionally intelligent, with a natural ability to connect deeply with others. Ai’s bearers are thought to have gentle strength, creativity, and a penchant for harmony in relationships and environments.

What does the name Ai mean?

Ai is a Japanese/Chinese name meaning “Love, affection”. The name Ai (愛) originates from Japanese and Chinese, meaning 'love' or 'affection.' It combines characters symbolizing deep emotional bonds and compassion. Historically, Ai is a popular feminine name in East Asia, embodying warmth and tenderness, often given to daughters to express parental love and hopes for a loving nature.

How do you pronounce Ai?

Ai is pronounced (IPA: ). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.

What are nicknames for Ai?

Popular nicknames for Ai include: Aia, Aiko, Ai-chan, Aimi, Aina, Airi, Ai-ny, Ai-pie, Ai-bear, Ai-star.

Who are famous people named Ai?

Famous people named Ai include: , , , Ai Otsuka, Ai Fukuhara.

Which celebrities named their baby Ai?

Celebrity babies named Ai include children of: Rinko Kikuchi and Yuji Sakamoto.

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Ai is a beautiful Japanese/Chinese name meaning “Love, affection”. The name Ai (愛) originates from Japanese and Chinese, meaning 'love' or 'affection.' It combines characters symbolizing deep emotional bonds and compassion. Historically, Ai is a popular feminine name...

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