Alan vs Ian

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Alan

Boy #167 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"handsome"

Origin: Celtic

English Scottish French Breton

✓ All Clear

Boy #75 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"God is gracious"

Origin: Scottish Gaelic

Scottish British Irish American

✓ All Clear

Alan Rank #167

Ian Rank #75

Ian is more popular, ranked #75 vs #167 for Alan.

Is Alan or Ian more popular?

Ian is more popular, ranked #75 compared to Alan at #167 in the United States.

What do Alan and Ian mean?

Alan means "handsome" (Celtic origin). Ian means "God is gracious" (Scottish Gaelic origin).

Are Alan and Ian boy or girl names?

Alan is primarily a boy name. Ian is primarily a boy name.