Allen
Allen is a boy name of English origin meaning “Little rock, harmony”, pronounced AL-en. It ranked #578 in the United States in 2025, given to 507 babies, and peaked at #71 in 1950. Common nicknames: Al, Lenny.
How popular is Allen 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 Allen mean, and where does it come from?
Allen is the English spelling of Alan, a name the Bretons brought to England in 1066 and which has been read two ways ever since: from a Celtic root meaning "little rock," or from one meaning "harmony" and "handsome." The -en spelling took hold as a surname first — there are Allens in every English-speaking country — and came back as a given name in the nineteenth century, peaking in the United States in the decades around the Second World War. It has the plain, unshowy quality of a mid-century American name, which is exactly what has started to bring it back into use for a new generation.
How is Allen used around the world?
Allen is used in 0 languages worldwide, with 8+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Allen?
Famous People Named Allen
- Allen Iverson — American Hall of Fame basketball player and NBA Most Valuable Player
- Allen Ginsberg — American poet and central figure of the Beat Generation
- Allen Leech — Irish actor known for Downton Abbey and The Imitation Game
Similar Names to Allen
If you like Allen, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Allen
Looking for names that pair well with Allen? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Allen mean?
Allen is a boy name of English origin meaning "Little rock, harmony." Allen is the English spelling of Alan, a name the Bretons brought to England in 1066 and which has been read two ways ever since: from a Celtic root meaning "little rock," or from one meaning "harmony" and "handsome." The -en spelling took hold as a surname first — there are Allens in every English-speaking country — and came back as a given name in the nineteenth century, peaking in the United States in the decades around the Second World War.
How do you pronounce Allen?
Allen is pronounced AL-en. Common variations include Alan, Allan, Alun.
Is Allen a boy name?
Yes, Allen is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Al, Lenny.