Alana
Alana is a girl name of Irish/Hawaiian origin meaning “Precious, awakening”, pronounced uh-LAH-nuh. It ranked #140 in the United States in 2025, given to 2,085 babies, and peaked at #140 in 2025. Common nicknames: Lana, Ally.
How popular is Alana 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 Alana mean, and where does it come from?
Alana serves as the feminine form of the Irish name Alan, often glossed as "precious" or "dear child" from the Gaelic. Interestingly, it also carries an entirely separate meaning in Hawaiian, where it can be understood as "awakening" or "offering," giving the name a rich dual heritage. Popularized in the mid-twentieth century, Alana has remained a gently popular choice across English-speaking countries without ever peaking dramatically. Its simple, melodic structure has kept it consistently appealing across generations.
How is Alana used around the world?
Alana is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 8+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Alana?
Famous People Named Alana
- Alana Blanchard — American professional surfer
- Alana Stewart — American actress and television personality
Similar Names to Alana
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Sibling Name Ideas for Alana
Looking for names that pair well with Alana? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Alana mean?
Alana is a girl name of Irish/Hawaiian origin meaning "Precious, awakening." Alana serves as the feminine form of the Irish name Alan, often glossed as "precious" or "dear child" from the Gaelic. Interestingly, it also carries an entirely separate meaning in Hawaiian, where it can be understood as "awakening" or "offering," giving the name a rich dual heritage.
How do you pronounce Alana?
Alana is pronounced uh-LAH-nuh. Common variations include Alanna, Alayna, Alani.
Is Alana a girl name?
Yes, Alana is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Lana, Ally.