Alan

Uncertain; “little rock” is one proposed explanation.

Alan is a masculine name with a Breton history and an uncertain original meaning. The familiar interpretation “little rock” is one proposal rather than a settled translation; another links the name to the Alans, an Iranian people. The Breton route into English is clearer than either explanation of its earliest root. In English, Alan has a firm opening syllable and a light ending. The l and n give it a gentle flow, while four letters keep its appearance spare. Allan and Allen share the English pronunciation but look a little fuller on the page. Alan may appeal if you like that rounded sound in its most compact spelling. Al is an established English short form, though Alan already feels comfortably brief.

Etymology: English Alan comes through the Old Breton name Alan. Its deeper origin is disputed: a Brythonic explanation gives “little rock”, while another connects it with the tribal name of the Alans.