ALLEN
Allen
Allen is a common surname of Celtic origin that is particularly prevalent in England, Scotland, and Ireland. The name is derived from the Celtic language, with variations such as Allan, Alain, and Alan also existing.
Origin and Meaning
The surname Allen is believed to have originated from the personal name "Alan," which itself has roots in the Old French name "Alain," and ultimately traced back to the Celtic word "alun" meaning rock or handsome. The surname likely developed as a patronymic, with the son of someone named Alan taking on the surname Allen to denote their lineage.
Distribution and Variants
The surname Allen is widespread in the United Kingdom, especially in England, Scotland, and Ireland. Variants of the name, such as Allan and Alain, are also common. In addition, regional variations like MacAllen and O'Allen can be found in Scotland and Ireland, respectively.
Notable Individuals
- Lily Allen: An English singer-songwriter known for her chart-topping hits.
- Woody Allen: An American filmmaker, actor, and comedian, with ancestry tracing back to Britain.
Cultural Significance
The surname Allen has been present throughout British history, with individuals bearing the name making notable contributions across various fields. The name has become a part of British culture and heritage, reflecting the diverse and rich tapestry of the country's population.
References
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
- Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
The surname Allen stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Celtic peoples and their influence on the British Isles, embodying a connection to the past while remaining relevant in the present day.
There are approximately 110,948 people named Allen in the UK. That makes it the 46th most common surname in Britain. Around 1,704 in a million people in Britain are named Allen.
Surname type: From given name or forename
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Jennifer
- Julie
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
- Victoria
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.