Harlan
Harlan is a boy name of English origin meaning “Hare land, rocky land”, pronounced HAR-lan. It ranked #617 in the United States in 2025, given to 454 babies, and peaked at #253 in 1924. Common nicknames: Har, Lan.
How popular is Harlan 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 Harlan mean, and where does it come from?
Harlan is an English place name — usually read as the land where hares run, sometimes as rocky land — that became a surname and then an American given name, helped by Harlan County in Kentucky and by two Supreme Court justices. It has been in the records since 1880, peaked in 1924 and is climbing again now, part of the revival of solid two-syllable names from the early twentieth century. American writing gives it its best-known bearers: Harlan Ellison, who was ferocious about everything, and Harlan Coben, who sells rather more books.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Harlan
- Harlan Ellison — American writer of speculative fiction
- Harlan Coben — American author of crime novels
- Harlan F. Stone — Chief Justice of the United States
Similar Names to Harlan
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Sibling Name Ideas for Harlan
Looking for names that pair well with Harlan? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Harlan mean?
Harlan is a boy name of English origin meaning "Hare land, rocky land." Harlan is an English place name — usually read as the land where hares run, sometimes as rocky land — that became a surname and then an American given name, helped by Harlan County in Kentucky and by two Supreme Court justices. It has been in the records since 1880, peaked in 1924 and is climbing again now, part of the revival of solid two-syllable names from the early twentieth century.
How do you pronounce Harlan?
Harlan is pronounced HAR-lan. Common variations include Harland, Harlen, Harlin.
Is Harlan a boy name?
Yes, Harlan is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Har, Lan.