Alannah Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: ah-LAN-ah //əˈlænə//
Origin: Irish; Gaelic
Meaning: Irish: 'little rock'; Gaelic: 'harmony'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Alannah has its roots in the Irish language, deriving from the word "alainn," which means "beautiful" or "pretty." The name is often considered a variant of the name "Alana," which itself has origins in both Irish and Old Breton, where it is derived from the word "alan," meaning "little rock" or "harmony." The transition of Alannah into English can be traced through the influence of Irish culture and language, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries when Irish names began to gain recognition outside of Ireland, especially in English-speaking countries. Historically, the name Alannah, along with its variants, has been associated with various figures in Irish folklore and literature.
The name's connection to beauty resonates with the cultural ideals of femininity in Irish mythology, where beauty often symbolizes strength and virtue. The name has also been linked to the Gaelic term "leanbh," meaning "child," which further emphasizes its affectionate and endearing qualities.
While specific historical milestones for the name Alannah are less documented compared to more prominent names, its usage in literature and poetry throughout the 19th century reflects the romanticization of Irish culture during that period. Culturally, Alannah embodies a sense of heritage and identity, often evoking images of the lush landscapes and rich traditions of Ireland.
The name is sometimes associated with themes of nature and femininity, reinforcing its appeal in various artistic expressions. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Ally" or "Lana" have emerged, providing affectionate alternatives that maintain the essence of the original name.
Overall, Alannah stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Irish linguistic and cultural influences.
Famous people named Alannah
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Alannah was first seen in the United States in 1948. Alannah has ranked as high as #1027 nationally, which occurred in 2015, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Alannah has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Alannah (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 21 | |
| FL | 17 | |
| TX | 15 | |
| NY | 10 | |
| PA | 8 | |
| OH | 7 | |
| TN | 6 | |
| GA | 5 | |
| IL | 5 | |
| MA | 5 | |
| NJ | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1948 | 6 |
| 1984 | 15 |
| 1985 | 19 |
| 1986 | 18 |
| 1987 | 17 |
| 1988 | 12 |
| 1989 | 12 |
| 1990 | 202 |
| 1991 | 143 |
| 1992 | 90 |
| 1993 | 101 |
| 1994 | 82 |
| 1995 | 94 |
| 1996 | 113 |
| 1997 | 118 |
| 1998 | 106 |
| 1999 | 128 |
| 2000 | 115 |
| 2001 | 173 |
| 2002 | 141 |
| 2003 | 189 |
| 2004 | 216 |
| 2005 | 197 |
| 2006 | 237 |
| 2007 | 272 |
| 2008 | 288 |
| 2009 | 267 |
| 2010 | 263 |
| 2011 | 283 |
| 2012 | 315 |
| 2013 | 303 |
| 2014 | 284 |
| 2015 | 370 |
| 2016 | 320 |
| 2017 | 293 |
| 2018 | 312 |
| 2019 | 260 |
| 2020 | 228 |
| 2021 | 206 |
| 2022 | 170 |
| 2023 | 146 |
| 2024 | 143 |