Allen

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Allen

Gender Boy
Origin Celtic
Letters 5
Syllables 2
Pronunciation AL-uhn

Allen, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Celtic origin.

Meaning of Allen

Fair / handsome

Allen is an English name derived from the Old German name Alle, meaning “noble, bright”. It is also a common surname in English, Scottish, and Irish origin.

Save
Rate:
(3.1/5 from 7 votes)
Meaning Fair / handsome
Origin Celtic
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #573 in 2024 Declining Fast
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Vintage (1940s)

Background & History of The Name Allen

The name "Allen" is a common given name that is derived from the Celtic language. It has several variations in spelling, including Alan, Allan, and Allyn. The name has a rich historical background and has been used worldwide for centuries.

One of the earliest known origins of the name can be traced back to Scotland, where it was a form of the Gaelic name "Ailin." In Gaelic, the name means "fair" or "handsome." The name later spread to England and other English-speaking countries.

The name Allen has gained popularity due to its simplicity and versatility. It has been used as both a first name and a surname. Many notable individuals throughout history have borne the name Allen, further adding to its appeal. For example, in the field of science, the famous physicist and inventor Thomas Alva Edison had the middle name "Alva," which is a variant of Allen.

In addition, Allen has also been a popular surname in various cultures. It is often of English, Scottish, or Irish origin. As a surname, Allen may have different meanings depending on its origin. For instance, in Gaelic, it was originally used as a patronymic surname, meaning "son of Alain." In England, it has been associated with the profession of "alderman," a local government position.

The name Allen continues to be used widely in contemporary times, with many notable figures carrying the name across different fields such as music, sports, and entertainment. Its enduring popularity reflects its timeless charm and appeal to parents seeking a classic and meaningful name for their child.+

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Allen over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials Allen would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Allen.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names