MallowbyNames

Xan

ZAN · of uncertain origin; possibly a short form of Alexander or a variant of Zan

Peak popularity
2007
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Xan since 1965

Babies named Xan per year in U.S. Social Security records.

132538198020002020Most births 2007GirlsBoys
GirlsBoys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirlsBoys
1960s960
1970s276
1980s00
1990s021
2000s069
2010s024
2020s012

Meaning & origin

Xan is a rare unisex name in the United States, though it has been predominantly given to boys. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1971, and while it has never ranked among the top 1000 names, its usage has remained remarkably stable over the decades. The name saw its peak in 2007, the year it was most frequently recorded, though even then it did not achieve widespread popularity. With a trajectory described as stable, Xan has a consistent but low level of use. The name's origins are somewhat unclear; it is likely a short form of Alexander or a variant of Zan, a diminutive of names like Alexander or Zander. This gives it a modern, streamlined feel that appeals to parents seeking a concise and distinctive name. Xan's top states are not available due to its rarity, but it has been recorded across the country.

Xan is likely a modern English short form of Alexander, though it may also be a variant of Zan, itself a diminutive of names like Alexander or Zander. Its usage as an independent name has been rare but consistent since the 1970s.

Xan” around the world

Where Xan lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.

  • France

    20

    babies in 2024

Sources: INSEE (France).

Nicknames & variants

Variants: Zan

Sibling names for Xan

Names that share Xan's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Zoe, Lena, Maya, Nina, Raya

Brothers: Zane, Leo, Kai, Jax, Finn

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

X is for Xan, our favorite little boy.

X is for Xan…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Xan's letter becomes Xan's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Xan's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Xan mean?
The meaning of Xan is uncertain. It is often considered a short form of Alexander, but it may also be a modern coinage without a specific meaning.
How popular is the name Xan?
Xan has been very rare in the United States, not ranking in the top 1000 names. Data from 2025 shows it did not place, and its peak year was 2007.
Is Xan a boy's or girl's name?
Xan is predominantly used as a boy's name.