Alan vs Alexander

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Alan

Boy #167 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"handsome"

Origin: Celtic

English Scottish French Breton

✓ All Clear

Boy #27 Most Popular 4 Syllables

"defender of men"

Origin: Greek alexein and aner

Greek English Russian Scottish German

✓ All Clear

Alan Rank #167

Alexander Rank #27

Alexander is more popular, ranked #27 vs #167 for Alan.

Is Alan or Alexander more popular?

Alexander is more popular, ranked #27 compared to Alan at #167 in the United States.

What do Alan and Alexander mean?

Alan means "handsome" (Celtic origin). Alexander means "defender of men" (Greek alexein and aner origin).

Are Alan and Alexander boy or girl names?

Alan is primarily a boy name. Alexander is primarily a boy name.