Alan
Alan is a boy name of Celtic/Breton origin meaning “Handsome, little rock”, pronounced AL-uhn. It ranked #191 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,915 babies, and peaked at #40 in 1951. Common nicknames: Al.
How popular is Alan in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Alan mean, and where does it come from?
Alan is an old Celtic name whose precise original meaning remains uncertain, though it has been variously interpreted as "handsome," "harmony," or "little rock." It was brought to Britain by Breton followers of William the Conqueror in 1066 and became a well-established medieval English name. Alan reached peak popularity in the mid-twentieth century, closely associated with icons like actor Alan Alda and computer scientist Alan Turing. Though less common among babies today, it remains a solid, respected classic.
How is Alan used around the world?
Alan is used in 4 languages worldwide, with 11+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Alan?
Famous People Named Alan
- Alan Turing — British mathematician and codebreaker
- Alan Alda — American actor
- Alan Rickman — British actor
Similar Names to Alan
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Sibling Name Ideas for Alan
Looking for names that pair well with Alan? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Alan mean?
Alan is a boy name of Celtic/Breton origin meaning "Handsome, little rock." Alan is an old Celtic name whose precise original meaning remains uncertain, though it has been variously interpreted as "handsome," "harmony," or "little rock." It was brought to Britain by Breton followers of William the Conqueror in 1066 and became a well-established medieval English name.
How do you pronounce Alan?
Alan is pronounced AL-uhn. Common variations include Allan, Allen, Alain.
Is Alan a boy name?
Yes, Alan is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Al.