Allan is a variant spelling of Alan, used as both a given name and a surname in English and Scottish contexts. The name is particularly well-known through the American author Edgar Allan Poe (1809–1849), who received his middle name from the surname of his adoptive parents, the Allans of Richmond, Virginia.Etymology and OriginsThe ultimate origin of the name is uncertain. It was used in Brittany as early as the 6th century, and may derive from a Brythonic element meaning "little rock" or from the tribal name of the Alans, an Iranian people who migrated into Europe in the 4th and 5th centuries. The name was borne by several dukes of Brittany and by Saint Alan of Quimper, a 6th-century Breton saint. After the Norman Conquest, Breton settlers introduced the name to England, where it became common.Notable BearersMany notable individuals bear the name Allan. In sports, there are Brazilian footballers simply known as Allan (born 1991 and 1997), Australian rugby union player Allan Alaalatoa (born 1994), and English rugby league footballer Allan Agar (born 1949). In the arts, Allan Ahlberg (born 1938) is a celebrated British children's book writer. In science and technology, Allan Alcorn (born 1948) is a pioneering engineer and computer scientist. Other notable figures include Allan Adair (1897–1988), a senior British Army officer, and Allan Abbass (born 1962), a Canadian professor and psychiatrist.Variants and Related NamesAllan is one of several variants of Alan, including Allen and Allyn in English, Ailean in Scottish Gaelic, and Alain in French. The diminutive Al is common in English. Feminine forms include Alaina, Alana, Alanna, and others.Meaning: Possibly "little rock" (Brythonic) or from the Alans (Iranian tribe)Origin: Breton, introduced to England after the Norman ConquestType: Given name and surnameUsage Regions: English, Scottish, Danish, Swedish, Estonian