The name Allen, pronounced as AL-uhn (/ˈælən/), is a classic male name with deep historical roots. Originating from Celtic and Gaelic traditions, Allen is derived from the word "ail," meaning "rock" or "handsome." This name has been associated with strength and beauty for centuries. Variations of the name include Allan and Alan, each sharing the same rich heritage. In the United States, Allen has experienced fluctuating popularity over the years, peaking in earlier decades but remaining a steady choice for parents today. Notable figures named Allen include American actor and comedian Woody Allen and civil rights leader Richard Allen, adding layers of cultural significance to this timeless name.
Irwin Allen Ginsberg was an influential American poet and writer who played a key role in the Beat Generation, advocating for countercultural values and expressing opposition to militarism, materialism, and sexual repression. |
Allen Ezail Iverson, also known as "the Answer," is a former professional basketball player who had a successful 14-season career in the NBA, earning numerous accolades and being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016. |
Allen Bernard West is a retired military officer and American politician who represented Florida's 22nd congressional district and served as the chairman of the Republican Party of Texas. |
Allen Tate, also known as John Orley Allen Tate, was an American poet, essayist, and social commentator who served as the poet laureate from 1943 to 1944. |
Robert Allen Stanford is a convicted financial fraudster and former financier who sponsored professional sports, serving a 110-year federal prison sentence for operating an eight billion dollar Ponzi scheme. |
Allen Granberry Thurman was a prominent Democratic politician from Ohio who served as a U.S. representative, Ohio Supreme Court justice, and Senator, and ran for Vice President in 1888. |
Allen James Coage, also known as Bad News Brown, was an accomplished American judoka who won medals at international judo competitions and later became a professional wrestler in various promotions. |
Allen John Carr was a British author known for his influential books on overcoming smoking and other psychological dependencies, such as alcohol addiction. |
Allen Lester Crabbe III is a former American professional basketball player known for his college career with the California Golden Bears and his time with the Westchester Knicks in the NBA G League. |
Thomas Allen Monro Curnow was a prominent New Zealand poet and journalist. |
Allen Stone is an American soul and R&B singer and musician known for his powerful vocals and soulful music. |
Allen George Debus was an esteemed American historian of science, renowned for his contributions to the history of chemistry and alchemy. |
Allen Mulherin Steele, Jr. is an American journalist and science fiction author. |
Allen Garfield was an American film and television actor known for his roles in popular movies and TV shows. |
Allen Jerome Morgan was an American rowing coxswain who participated in the 1948 Summer Olympics. |