Alison is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Ailís. This name has a rich history and cultural significance in Ireland.
The name Ailís is believed to have originated from the Old Irish word ail, which means "noble" or "proud." Thus, Alison is often translated as "noble" or "proud," reflecting the strength and dignity associated with this name.
Alison has been a popular name in Ireland for centuries. One of the earliest known references to the name appears in the 12th-century Irish tale "The Adventure of the Sons of Úisliu." In this story, Ailís is one of the daughters of Úisliu and plays a significant role in the plot.
Over time, Alison has become popular beyond Ireland. Today, it is recognized as a traditional Scottish name as well, due to the historical connections between Scotland and Ireland. It has also gained popularity in other English-speaking countries, such as England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
The name Alison typically ranks high among female names in many of these countries, demonstrating its enduring appeal. Despite its roots in history, Alison remains a timeless and classic choice for parents naming their daughters today.
In conclusion, the name Alison carries a proud Irish heritage, with a meaning that reflects nobility and strength. Its rich history and widespread popularity make it a well-recognized and beloved name worldwide.
Based on the statistical data provided for the name Alison in the United States from 1905 to 2023, we can observe several trends and patterns over time.
From 1905 to 1945, the number of births with the name Alison varied between a low of 7 births in 1905 to a peak of 120 births in 1945. This period saw gradual fluctuations, but overall, the name remained relatively uncommon.
The year 1946 marked a significant turning point, with 214 births, indicating an increased popularity for the name Alison. This trend continued through the 1950s and 1960s, reaching its peak in 1969 with 1764 births. This decade also saw the highest annual increase in the number of babies named Alison, from 958 births in 1966 to 1764 births in 1969.
The popularity of the name Alison continued to rise throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, peaking at 2938 births in 1979. However, from the mid-1980s onwards, there was a steady decline in its popularity. By the year 2000, the number of babies named Alison had fallen to 1360 births.
This downward trend continued into the 21st century, with the name Alison becoming increasingly uncommon. From 2005 to 2023, there were less than 1500 births per year, and in recent years, this number has been decreasing further. In 2023, there were only 651 babies named Alison.
In total, between 1905 and 2023, there have been 115558 babies named Alison born in the United States. This data illustrates how the popularity of a name can fluctuate significantly over time, with peaks and troughs influenced by various social and cultural factors.