Alana Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: ah-LAH-nah /əˈlɑːnə/
Origin: Irish; Hebrew
Meaning: Irish: 'little rock'; Hebrew: 'noble'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Alana is believed to have multiple linguistic roots, primarily deriving from the Old Breton name "Alain," which itself is derived from the Proto-Celtic word "*alānos," meaning "rock" or "harmony." The name made its way into the English language through the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, as the Normans brought various Celtic names into England. Additionally, Alana is often associated with the Arabic name "Alana," which means "noble" or "exalted," showcasing the name's diverse etymological background.
Historically, the name Alana has been linked to various figures and cultures. In the context of Celtic history, the name Alain was borne by several notable figures, including Alain de Lille, a 12th-century poet and theologian.
The name also appears in various forms across different cultures, including the Gaelic "Ailín" and the Irish "Ailbhe," which further illustrates its historical significance. The name's presence in literature and religious texts, while not as prominent as some biblical names, contributes to its cultural resonance.
Culturally, Alana has been associated with qualities such as strength and beauty, often symbolizing a connection to nature and harmony. The name has been embraced in various traditions, reflecting a sense of grace and nobility.
In some cultures, diminutive forms like "Lana" or "Ally" have emerged, though these variations are more contemporary. Overall, Alana's rich etymological roots and historical connections contribute to its enduring appeal across different cultures and eras.
Famous people named Alana
Alana Haim is a musician best known for being a member of the band Haim, as well as for their albums Days Are Gone and Something to Tell You.
Alana Thompson is a television personality best known for her appearance on Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.
Fictional characters named Alana
Alana is a fictional character from the comic book series Saga. She is a soldier from the Landfallan army who falls in love with a man from the enemy faction, leading to a forbidden romance that drives the story's conflict.
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Alana was first seen in the United States in 1930.
Alana has ranked as high as #303 nationally, which occurred in 2007, and has been most popular in California, New York, Florida, Texas, and Pennsylvania.
In the past 5 years the name Alana has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Alana (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 293 | |
| CA | 273 | |
| FL | 257 | |
| NY | 128 | |
| NJ | 91 | |
| GA | 78 | |
| NC | 70 | |
| IL | 60 | |
| PA | 58 | |
| MA | 53 | |
| TN | 47 | |
| OH | 47 | |
| VA | 43 | |
| AZ | 40 | |
| MD | 38 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1930 | 12 |
| 1931 | 5 |
| 1932 | 5 |
| 1933 | 7 |
| 1934 | 5 |
| 1937 | 5 |
| 1939 | 5 |
| 1940 | 5 |
| 1941 | 9 |
| 1942 | 17 |
| 1943 | 42 |
| 1944 | 104 |
| 1945 | 134 |
| 1946 | 194 |
| 1947 | 219 |
| 1948 | 221 |
| 1949 | 198 |
| 1950 | 183 |
| 1951 | 189 |
| 1952 | 172 |
| 1953 | 160 |
| 1954 | 139 |
| 1955 | 119 |
| 1956 | 132 |
| 1957 | 116 |
| 1958 | 103 |
| 1959 | 100 |
| 1960 | 127 |
| 1961 | 159 |
| 1962 | 156 |
| 1963 | 199 |
| 1964 | 215 |
| 1965 | 191 |
| 1966 | 200 |
| 1967 | 220 |
| 1968 | 211 |
| 1969 | 211 |
| 1970 | 250 |
| 1971 | 203 |
| 1972 | 227 |
| 1973 | 278 |
| 1974 | 337 |
| 1975 | 442 |
| 1976 | 370 |
| 1977 | 365 |
| 1978 | 440 |
| 1979 | 606 |
| 1980 | 636 |
| 1981 | 639 |
| 1982 | 707 |
| 1983 | 633 |
| 1984 | 655 |
| 1985 | 977 |
| 1986 | 728 |
| 1987 | 623 |
| 1988 | 652 |
| 1989 | 666 |
| 1990 | 720 |
| 1991 | 701 |
| 1992 | 671 |
| 1993 | 773 |
| 1994 | 798 |
| 1995 | 900 |
| 1996 | 1,155 |
| 1997 | 1,038 |
| 1998 | 1,218 |
| 1999 | 1,246 |
| 2000 | 1,279 |
| 2001 | 1,233 |
| 2002 | 1,391 |
| 2003 | 1,621 |
| 2004 | 1,913 |
| 2005 | 1,974 |
| 2006 | 2,121 |
| 2007 | 2,461 |
| 2008 | 2,037 |
| 2009 | 1,904 |
| 2010 | 1,819 |
| 2011 | 1,702 |
| 2012 | 1,779 |
| 2013 | 1,758 |
| 2014 | 1,675 |
| 2015 | 1,629 |
| 2016 | 1,573 |
| 2017 | 1,447 |
| 2018 | 1,533 |
| 2019 | 1,340 |
| 2020 | 1,400 |
| 2021 | 1,333 |
| 2022 | 1,420 |
| 2023 | 1,617 |
| 2024 | 2,054 |