Rising since 1985, #280 for girls today.
Popularity of Alanna since 1930
Babies named Alanna per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1930s | 25 |
| 1940s | 175 |
| 1950s | 423 |
| 1960s | 499 |
| 1970s | 1,449 |
| 1980s | 2,917 |
| 1990s | 5,030 |
| 2000s | 6,175 |
| 2010s | 5,843 |
| 2020s | 4,476 |
Meaning & origin
Alanna has been steadily climbing in popularity over the past few decades, rising since 1985 and reaching a peak rank of 280 in 2025. Currently, about 1 in 1,462 newborn girls receive the name, with particular favor in states like New Mexico, Florida, and Connecticut. The name's first recorded use in U.S. data dates to 1930, suggesting it has been in modest use since then, but its recent upward trajectory marks it as a modern classic in the making. Its versatility across regions and its melodic sound contribute to its enduring appeal.
Alanna is generally considered an Irish feminine form of Alan, possibly derived from a diminutive of 'ailin' meaning 'little rock.' It may also be linked to the Irish word 'a leanbh' meaning 'child,' used as a term of endearment. The name gained popularity in English-speaking countries in the 20th century.
Where Alanna is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Alanna” around the world
Where Alanna lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
20
babies in 2024
Ireland
14
babies in 2025
Quebec
6
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland) · Retraite Québec (Quebec).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Lanna, Anna, Lani
Sibling names for Alanna
Names that share Alanna's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Alanna
Names whose popularity has moved with Alanna's over the last 50 years.
