Declining since 1985.
Popularity of Lan since 1948
Babies named Lan per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1940s | 0 | 6 |
| 1950s | 0 | 31 |
| 1960s | 0 | 10 |
| 1970s | 97 | 38 |
| 1980s | 336 | 108 |
| 1990s | 183 | 37 |
| 2000s | 92 | 31 |
| 2010s | 61 | 24 |
| 2020s | 0 | 33 |
Meaning & origin
Lan is a short, elegant name with a rich but ambiguous heritage. Its U.S. usage peaked in 1982, with the first recorded occurrence in 1972. Since 1985, its popularity has been steadily falling, but it remains a name that travels across cultures. In Chinese and Vietnamese traditions, Lan means 'orchid', a flower associated with beauty and refinement. As an English diminutive, it carries the legacy of names like Alan (meaning 'little rock') or Lancelot (of debated origin). Though it has never ranked among the top 1,000 names nationally and no state consistently records it, its cross-cultural appeal makes it a subtle, understated choice. The lack of any top state data suggests it is a rare but consistent favorite among families with East Asian heritage or those drawn to minimalist names with natural associations.
Lan has multiple potential origins. In Chinese, it can be a transcription of 兰 (lán) meaning 'orchid' or 蓝 (lán) meaning 'blue'. In Vietnamese, Lan means 'orchid' and is a common given name. In English, Lan may arise as a short form of Lancelot, Alan, or other names beginning with Lan-. Its modern use in the United States is scattered and likely influenced by Asian heritage or creative naming.
Sibling names for Lan
Names that share Lan's style, for a brother or sister.
