The name Harlan, pronounced as HAR-lan (/ˈhɑrlən/), is a strong and classic choice for boys. It originates from Old English, meaning "rocky land" or "hare land." Over the years, Harlan has maintained a steady presence in the United States, with its popularity peaking in the mid-20th century and seeing a resurgence in recent years. The name carries a sense of resilience and steadfastness, often associated with nature and strength. Notable bearers of the name include Harlan Coben, a best-selling American author known for his gripping suspense novels, and Harlan Ellison, an influential science fiction writer. With its rich history and timeless appeal, Harlan remains an enduring favorite among parents seeking a name that combines tradition with a touch of rugged charm.
Harlan Jay Ellison was a prolific and influential American writer known for his work in speculative fiction and his combative personality, with notable works including the Star Trek episode "The City on the Edge of Forever" and the short stories "I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream" and "'Repent, Harlequin!' Said the Ticktockman". |
Harlan Coben is an American author known for his mystery novels and thrillers, many of which have been adapted into Netflix series. |
Harlan Ware was a renowned American writer known for his novels, screenplays, radio scripts, and short stories, with his work appearing in The Saturday Evening Post and being adapted into a motion picture. |
Harlan Perry Howard was a prolific American songwriter known for his enduring country music hits recorded by various artists over six decades. |
Harlan Hubbard was an American artist and writer celebrated for his modest way of life. |
Harlan Cleveland was a prominent American diplomat, educator, and author who held various high-profile positions, including U.S. Ambassador to NATO and president of the University of Hawaii. |
Harlan James Smith was an American astronomer known for his directorship at the University of Texas McDonald Observatory and the initiation of the construction of the Harlan J. Smith Telescope. |
Harlan Page Prince was a prominent 19th-century American sea captain who commanded eight ships during his forty-year career at sea. |
Harlan Greene is an accomplished American writer and historian, known for winning the Lambda Literary Award for Gay Fiction for his novel What the Dead Remember. |
Harlan Cohen was an American volleyball coach who led the United States men's and women's national teams in the mid-1960s. |
Harlan Francis Hagen was an American lawyer, World War II veteran, and Democratic U.S. Representative from California from 1953 to 1967. |
Harlan Howard Thompson, also known as Stephen Holt, was a celebrated children's book author and served as the international president of P.E.N. from 1958 to 1959. |
Harlan Carr - Harlan Bradley "Gotch" Carr was a professional football player from Union Springs, New York, who played for the Pottsville Maroons and Buffalo Bisons in the NFL, scoring two rushing touchdowns in ten games during his 1-year career. |
Harlan Parker Banks was a renowned American paleobotanist and professor at Cornell University, known for his extensive research on Devonian plants. |
Harlan Vincent - Harlan H. Vincent is a member of the New Mexico House of Representatives for the 56th district, elected in November 2022. |