Alison

Noble — a girl name of French/English origin

GenderGirl
MeaningNoble
PronunciationAL-i-suhn

Popularity of Alison in the United States

#476Rank in 2025
644Births in 2025
#96 in 1986Peak Popularity
↓ Declining10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Alison

Alison developed in medieval France as a diminutive of Alice, itself from the Germanic "Adalheidis," meaning "noble." It was among the most common English names in the Middle Ages, appearing in Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" as the name of the Wife of Bath. After falling out of fashion for centuries, it returned strongly in the twentieth century, particularly in North America and Britain. Alison remains a warm, classic choice, often used interchangeably with the double-"l" spelling Allison.

Alison Around the World

Alison is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 8+ international variants.

Languages
EnglishPortuguese
Details

TypeFemale given name

International Variants
Alis
AllisonEnglish
Ailis
AllysonEnglish
AlisenEnglish
Alisson
Alyson
Ailie

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Alison

AliAllieSonny

Famous People Named Alison

  • Alison Krauss — American bluegrass singer
  • Alyson Hannigan — American actress (alternate spelling)

Similar Names to Alison

If you like Alison, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.

Also consider:Alexis

Sibling Name Ideas for Alison

Looking for names that pair well with Alison? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Alison mean?

Alison is a girl name of French/English origin meaning "Noble." Alison developed in medieval France as a diminutive of Alice, itself from the Germanic "Adalheidis," meaning "noble." It was among the most common English names in the Middle Ages, appearing in Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" as the name of the Wife of Bath.

How do you pronounce Alison?

Alison is pronounced AL-i-suhn. Common variations include Allison, Allyson, Alyson.

Is Alison a girl name?

Yes, Alison is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Ali, Allie, Sonny.

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