Declining since 1986, #476 for girls today.
Popularity of Alison since 1905
Babies named Alison per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 12 |
| 1910s | 134 |
| 1920s | 198 |
| 1930s | 367 |
| 1940s | 1,450 |
| 1950s | 6,216 |
| 1960s | 12,233 |
| 1970s | 22,070 |
| 1980s | 27,018 |
| 1990s | 19,729 |
| 2000s | 13,286 |
| 2010s | 10,150 |
| 2020s | 4,023 |
Meaning & origin
Alison is a feminine name of Norman French origin, a diminutive of Alice meaning 'noble kind.' First recorded in the United States in 1905, it saw its peak popularity in 1979 when it ranked highest. Since 1986, its usage has been declining, but it remains a familiar and well-liked choice. As of 2025, it ranks 476th, with about 1 in every 2,496 girls named Alison. The name has been most common in states like Maine, Nebraska, and Alabama. Despite the decline, Alison has a classic feel that appeals to many parents seeking a name with historical roots and a gentle sound.
Alison is a Norman French diminutive of Alice, itself from the Old French name Alais, a short form of the Germanic name Adalheidis, meaning 'noble kind' or 'of noble birth.' The name was introduced to England by the Normans and was common in medieval times. It fell out of favor after the 17th century but experienced a strong revival in the mid-20th century, especially in English-speaking countries.
Where Alison 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.
“Alison” around the world
Where Alison lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
20
babies in 2024
Ireland
20
babies in 2025
New Zealand
10
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland) · NZ Dept of Internal Affairs (New Zealand).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ali, Allie, Al
Sibling names for Alison
Names that share Alison's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Alison
Names whose popularity has moved with Alison's over the last 50 years.
