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Alan
Meaning: uncertain; possibly 'little rock' · Origin: Breton (Celtic) · Gender: usually a boy's name
Origin & history
Its meaning is not known for certain: it may be Brythonic for 'little rock', or come from the Alans, an Iranian people who migrated into Europe. Used in Brittany since at least the 6th century, it was brought to England by Breton settlers after the Norman Conquest.
Famous people named Alan
- Alan Turing (mathematician)
Nicknames
Al
Variants & related names
Allan, Allen, Alain
Alan name art
A free preview of a printable “Alan” poster with its meaning — great for a nursery, a birthday or a gift.
Instant download, no subscription. Not printed or shipped — you get a high-resolution PNG to print at home or at a print shop.
FAQ
What does the name Alan mean?
Alan means “uncertain; possibly 'little rock'”. It comes from Breton (Celtic).
Is Alan a popular name?
Yes — Alan has been one of the most popular boys' names in the United States in the 2020s, according to US Social Security Administration baby-name data.
What are nicknames for Alan?
Al.
What are other forms of Alan?
Allan, Allen, Alain.
Similar names
Harvey · Gael · Alexander · Asher · Aiden · Anthony
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Sources: standard name etymology references (e.g. Behind the Name, Oxford Dictionary of First Names); popularity from US SSA and UK ONS baby-name data. Meanings of old names are often debated — where scholars disagree we say so.