Alan

Alan is a British surname derived from the given name "Alan," which is of Celtic origin meaning "harmony" or "peace." The surname Alan has its roots in Scotland, Wales, and England, where it is encountered with various spelling variations, such as Allan, Allen, or Allain.

The name Alan was first introduced to Britain by the Bretons, a Celtic people from Brittany, France, who settled in parts of the British Isles during the medieval period. Over time, the surname Alan spread throughout the country, with notable concentrations in regions like the Scottish Highlands, where the clan Macallan is associated with this surname.

Throughout history, individuals bearing the surname Alan have made significant contributions to various fields, including literature, academia, and the arts. The name has also been linked to several influential figures, such as Allan Ramsay, the renowned Scottish poet; and William Allen, an English cardinal and diplomat.

Today, the surname Alan remains relatively common in the United Kingdom and continues to be passed down through generations, reflecting the diverse heritage and cultural tapestry of the British Isles.

There are approximately 774 people named Alan in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,998th most common surname in Britain. Around 12 in a million people in Britain are named Alan.

Surname type: From given name or forename

Region of origin: Europe

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Dale
  • David
  • Jahangir
  • James
  • Jeff
  • John
  • Karl
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Thomas

Female

  • Barbara
  • Elizabeth
  • Hayley
  • Jane
  • Kelly
  • Lily
  • Louisa
  • Mary
  • Nesrin
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Ruby
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Vadjiheh

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