Alanna
Fact sheet
- Name
- Alanna
- Gender
- Girl name
- Syllables
- 3
Alanna is an English variant of the name Alana, which is considered the feminine form of the Irish name Alan. The origin of Alanna is likely rooted in the Celtic language and means 'the little rock', derived from the word al, which means 'the rock'.
What does the name Alanna mean?
The name Alanna represents an English variation of Alana, which in turn is the feminine form of the Irish name Alan. This name likely has Celtic roots and is translated as 'the little rock', based on the word al for 'the rock'. Another possible derivation could come from the Alans or Alani, an Indo-European nomadic people who lived north of Persia, implying the meaning 'from the people of the Alans'. Additionally, the Irish term alan, meaning 'handsome', 'stately', or 'peaceful', may also contribute to its interpretation. Alternatively, the Celtic term alun for 'harmony' is mentioned, which can lead to meanings like 'the beautiful', 'the lovely', or 'the cheerful'. There is also the possibility that Alanna was influenced by the old Irish term alannah and the Gaelic word a leanbh, which means 'O child'. Variants of the name include Alanah, Alanis, Alaine, Alayna, Alannah, Allana, and Allanah. The name gained popularity through Tamora Pierce's fantasy series 'Alanna of Trebond's Adventures'.
Where does the name Alanna come from?
Alanna has its roots in Old Irish and Caucasian and means 'the little rock' or 'the beautiful'. The etymology includes Celtic components, with al meaning 'the rock'. The languages from which the name originates are English and Gaelic.
How do you pronounce Alanna?
The sound and pronunciation of Alanna: The name Alanna is three syllables and has a gentle structure. In German pronunciation, it is usually rendered as 'A-lan-na' [aˈlana], starting with an open 'A' that conveys expansiveness. The doubling of the 'n' provides a soft middle, while the open ending '-a' melodically rounds off the name. Overall, Alanna thus appears friendly, feminine, and balanced - gentle in flow and clear in expression.
Popularity
In Germany, Alanna is among the common first names. Currently, it ranks 4,045th among the most popular female baby names. Its best placement was in 2013 at 2,008th place. In the last ten years, Alanna has been given as a first name about 40 times, placing it 4,401st in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 3,895th.
Nicknames & pet names
Ala / Aly / Lala / Lanna / Lanni / Lannu
Similar first names
Famous people
- Alanna Clarke (American musician)
- Alanna the Lioness (heroine from Tamora Pierce's famous young adult book series)
- Alanna Kennedy (Australian soccer player)
- Alanna Masterson (actress)
- Alanna Nash (American journalist)
Frequently asked questions about the name Alanna
What is the origin of the name Alanna?
Alanna has its roots in Old Irish and Caucasian and is translated as 'the little rock' or 'the beautiful'. The linguistic origins lie in English and Gaelic.
What does the name Alanna mean?
The name Alanna is derived from Alana, a feminine form of the Irish name Alan. It is associated with 'the little rock', but also has meanings like 'the beautiful' or 'the cheerful'.
How popular is the name Alanna?
Alanna enjoys a certain popularity in various countries, especially in the USA and Canada, where the name is frequently given and became known through literary works such as Tamora Pierce's fantasy series.