Alison Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: AL-ih-sun //ˈælɪsən//
Origin: Old French; English
Meaning: Noble; of noble birth
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Alison has its roots in the Old French name 'Alicine,' which is a diminutive form of 'Adèle,' itself derived from the Germanic name 'Adalheidis,' meaning 'noble kind' or 'noble sort.' The name entered the English language during the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, when French influence permeated English culture and language. Over time, Alison evolved into various forms, including 'Alison' and 'Allison,' which became more common in English-speaking regions.
Historically, the name Alison has been borne by notable figures, including Alison of France, a 12th-century noblewoman, and various saints and literary characters throughout the Middle Ages. The name gained further recognition through its use in literature, appearing in works such as Geoffrey Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales' in the 14th century, where it was associated with the character Alison, the wife of Bath.
This association with a strong, independent female character contributed to the name's cultural resonance in medieval society. In addition to its literary significance, Alison has been linked to themes of nobility and virtue, reflecting the meanings of its etymological roots.
The name has also been used in various forms of art and music, further embedding it within cultural traditions. The diminutive 'Ali' has emerged as a familiar form, although it is less historically significant than the full name.
Overall, Alison's journey through language and culture illustrates its enduring appeal and the rich tapestry of history that surrounds it.
Famous people named Alison
Alison Brie is an actress best known for Community, Mad Men, and GLOW.
Alison Krauss is a musician best known for her work with Union Station, O Brother, Where Art Thou?, and Raising Sand.
Alison Moyet is a singer-songwriter best known for her work with Yazoo, and her solo hits such as Invisible and All Cried Out.
Alison Pill is an actress best known for Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, The Newsroom, and Pieces of April.
Alison Sweeney is an actress and television host best known for Days of Our Lives and The Biggest Loser.
Fictional characters named Alison
Alison DiLaurentis is a fictional character from the book series and TV show Pretty Little Liars. She is a central figure whose mysterious disappearance and manipulative nature drive much of the plot's intrigue.
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Alison was first seen in the United States in 1905.
Alison has ranked as high as #196 nationally, which occurred in 1980, and has been most popular in California, New York, Texas, Pennsylvania, and Illinois.
In the past 5 years the name Alison has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Alison (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 118 | |
| CA | 105 | |
| NY | 54 | |
| FL | 46 | |
| GA | 25 | |
| AZ | 22 | |
| NJ | 21 | |
| IL | 20 | |
| NC | 20 | |
| CO | 14 | |
| MD | 14 | |
| PA | 13 | |
| MA | 12 | |
| OH | 12 | |
| VA | 11 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1905 | 7 |
| 1907 | 5 |
| 1910 | 5 |
| 1912 | 9 |
| 1913 | 12 |
| 1914 | 22 |
| 1915 | 16 |
| 1916 | 15 |
| 1917 | 20 |
| 1918 | 18 |
| 1919 | 17 |
| 1920 | 10 |
| 1921 | 19 |
| 1922 | 21 |
| 1923 | 22 |
| 1924 | 23 |
| 1925 | 14 |
| 1926 | 22 |
| 1927 | 25 |
| 1928 | 28 |
| 1929 | 14 |
| 1930 | 24 |
| 1931 | 21 |
| 1932 | 35 |
| 1933 | 26 |
| 1934 | 50 |
| 1935 | 35 |
| 1936 | 51 |
| 1937 | 38 |
| 1938 | 43 |
| 1939 | 44 |
| 1940 | 42 |
| 1941 | 35 |
| 1942 | 78 |
| 1943 | 67 |
| 1944 | 77 |
| 1945 | 120 |
| 1946 | 214 |
| 1947 | 233 |
| 1948 | 268 |
| 1949 | 316 |
| 1950 | 353 |
| 1951 | 418 |
| 1952 | 440 |
| 1953 | 492 |
| 1954 | 619 |
| 1955 | 545 |
| 1956 | 592 |
| 1957 | 567 |
| 1958 | 993 |
| 1959 | 1,197 |
| 1960 | 1,267 |
| 1961 | 1,409 |
| 1962 | 1,422 |
| 1963 | 1,388 |
| 1964 | 1,451 |
| 1965 | 1,461 |
| 1966 | 959 |
| 1967 | 895 |
| 1968 | 904 |
| 1969 | 1,077 |
| 1970 | 1,764 |
| 1971 | 2,210 |
| 1972 | 1,808 |
| 1973 | 1,928 |
| 1974 | 2,079 |
| 1975 | 2,267 |
| 1976 | 2,273 |
| 1977 | 2,372 |
| 1978 | 2,433 |
| 1979 | 2,938 |
| 1980 | 2,980 |
| 1981 | 2,704 |
| 1982 | 2,726 |
| 1983 | 2,491 |
| 1984 | 2,512 |
| 1985 | 2,829 |
| 1986 | 2,975 |
| 1987 | 2,771 |
| 1988 | 2,540 |
| 1989 | 2,489 |
| 1990 | 2,363 |
| 1991 | 2,153 |
| 1992 | 2,065 |
| 1993 | 2,241 |
| 1994 | 2,121 |
| 1995 | 1,952 |
| 1996 | 1,901 |
| 1997 | 1,763 |
| 1998 | 1,642 |
| 1999 | 1,527 |
| 2000 | 1,381 |
| 2001 | 1,360 |
| 2002 | 1,361 |
| 2003 | 1,413 |
| 2004 | 1,433 |
| 2005 | 1,256 |
| 2006 | 1,217 |
| 2007 | 1,170 |
| 2008 | 1,247 |
| 2009 | 1,448 |
| 2010 | 1,219 |
| 2011 | 1,272 |
| 2012 | 1,184 |
| 2013 | 1,072 |
| 2014 | 1,118 |
| 2015 | 967 |
| 2016 | 973 |
| 2017 | 816 |
| 2018 | 770 |
| 2019 | 758 |
| 2020 | 699 |
| 2021 | 658 |
| 2022 | 692 |
| 2023 | 653 |
| 2024 | 673 |