Ian vs Alan

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Ian

Boy #75 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"God is gracious"

Origin: Scottish Gaelic

Scottish British Irish American

✓ All Clear

Boy #167 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"handsome"

Origin: Celtic

English Scottish French Breton

✓ All Clear

Ian Rank #75

Alan Rank #167

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

Is Ian or Alan more popular?

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

What do Ian and Alan mean?

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

Are Ian and Alan boy or girl names?

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