What does Arlan mean and where does it come from?
The name Arlan has its origins primarily in the United States and is often interpreted as a modern American name. It is thought to derive from the word 'Eagle', symbolizing strength and freedom. The name's first recorded usage dates back to the 20th century. While it's not widely popular, it carries
Cultural significance
Arlan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of eagle.
Peak popularity
Reached #627 in 1936 — currently #2655 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Arlan?
Arlan works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Arlan Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Arlan Rose
Floral · soft ending
Arlan Mae
Sweet · timeless
Arlan Claire
French influence · crisp
Arlan Jane
Literary · strong
Arlan Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Arlan right now?
Rising fast — up 760 spots — currently #2655 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #2655 | 49 | ▲ up 760 · +44% births |
| 2022 | #3415 | 34 | ▼ down 393 · -15% births |
| 2021 | #3022 | 40 | ▼ down 232 · -7% births |
| 2020 | #2790 | 43 | ▲ up 1389 · +79% births |
| 2015 | #4179 | 24 | ▲ up 683 · +26% births |
| 2010 | #4862 | 19 | ▲ up 437 · +27% births |
| 2005 | #5299 | 15 | ▲ up 1067 · +50% births |
| 2000 | #6366 | 10 | ▲ up 2629 · +100% births |
| 1995 | #8995 | 5 | ▼ down 4785 · -62% births |
| 1990 | #4210 | 13 | ▲ up 196 · +44% births |
| 1985 | #4406 | 9 | ▼ down 1412 · -40% births |
| 1980 | #2994 | 15 | ▼ down 38 · +15% births |
| 1975 | #2956 | 13 | ▼ down 936 · -35% births |
| 1970 | #2020 | 20 | ▼ down 623 · -35% births |
| 1965 | #1397 | 31 | — |
The story of Arlan
Arlan entered American naming records in 1912 and has been in use for over 112 years. With 3,206 total births recorded, Arlan remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2417 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #2655 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Arlan in 1936:
Arlan by decade
Arlan peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 90 | |
| 1920s | 264 | |
| 1930s | 604 | |
| 1940s ★ | 606 | |
| 1950s | 516 | |
| 1960s | 309 | |
| 1970s | 169 | |
| 1980s | 122 | |
| 1990s | 104 | |
| 2000s | 134 | |
| 2010s | 245 | |
| 2020s | 43 | |
💎With 3,206 total births, Arlan is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Arlan?
What names sound and feel like Arlan?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Arlan also consider these
Common questions about the name Arlan
What does the name Arlan mean?
Arlan means "Eagle" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Arlan?
Arlan is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Arlan have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Arlan?
Arlan originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Arlan trending right now?
Arlan is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Is Arlan a common or rare name?
Arlan is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.