Alan
Meaning: Handsome, cheerful, little rock
Origin: Celtic/Breton
Gender: Boy
Rank in Australia: #96
Total births: 6,399
History: Alan peaked in the 1960s in Australia. Alan Border captained Australia through cricket's darkest days and rebuilt the team into a dynasty. His tenacity earned him the nickname 'Captain Grumpy.' Alan means never giving up, even when everything looks hopeless.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Australia’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (1983) | #100 |
| Babies named Alan in 1983 | 72 |
| Total recorded in Australia | 6,399 |
| Peak year | 1952 (474 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #27 |
| Years in records | 1952–1983 (32 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 12 spots |
Frequently asked about Alan
What does the name Alan mean?
Alan means “Handsome, cheerful, little rock” from Celtic/Breton roots.
What is the origin of the name Alan?
Alan has Celtic/Breton origin. The traditional meaning is “Handsome, cheerful, little rock”.
How popular is Alan in Australia?
Alan ranked #100 in Australia in 1983 — given to 72 babies that year.
When was Alan most popular?
Alan peaked in 1952 with 474 babies registered that year in Australia.
Is Alan a boy or girl name?
Alan is predominantly a boys' name in Australia — over 90% of Alans in registered births are male.
Is the name Alan rising or falling in popularity?
Alan has fallen 12 spots in the rankings over the last 5 years in Australia — from #88 in 1978 to #100 in 1983.
How long has Alan been recorded in Australia?
Alan appears in birth records in Australia across 32 years — from 1952 through 1983.