Malan is a name of African origin, specifically from the Xhosa people of South Africa. It is a traditional male name that has been passed down through generations.
The meaning of Malan is not explicitly known, but it is believed to have originated from the Xhosa word "umalaye," which refers to a person who is always ready or prepared. This suggests that the name may have been given to individuals who were considered reliable and responsible.
In terms of its history, Malan was traditionally given to male children in Xhosa families. It has been used for centuries and is still popular today among the Xhosa people and other South Africans. Notable individuals with the name Malan include South African politician Dawid Malan and cricketer Justin Malan.
Overall, while the exact origin and meaning of Malan may be uncertain, it remains an important and historic name in South Africa that carries cultural significance for many families.
The name Malan has seen a varied degree of popularity in the United States over the past two decades. Between 1998 and 2023, there have been a total of 190 babies named Malan.
In terms of annual births, the years with the highest number of Malans were 2012 and 2022, each with 17 and 13 births respectively. This indicates that these two years were the peak periods for parents choosing the name Malan for their newborns.
However, the popularity of the name has fluctuated significantly over time. For instance, there was a notable decline in the number of babies named Malan between 2017 and 2018, with only 7 births each year compared to 8 births in both 2016 and 2019.
Despite these fluctuations, it is clear that the name Malan has maintained a consistent presence in the United States over the past two decades. While it may not be one of the most popular names, its enduring popularity among parents suggests that there is something appealing about this distinctive moniker.