Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Alison”

Origin and Historical Background

The name Alison originated from the French diminutive form of Alice, which itself is derived from the Old High German name Adalheidis. Adalheidis is composed of the elements ‘adal’, meaning “noble” and ‘heid’, meaning “kind” or “type.” The name Alison became popular in the medieval period in England and Scotland and has since seen various evolutions and usage in multiple cultures.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

Alison means “noble,” which is suggestive of high moral qualities, leadership, and strength. The meaning ‘noble’ imbues this name with cultural richness and significance, denoting qualities like honor, kindness, and integrity. It became widely used in English-speaking countries and often symbolizes a person who is admired for their character and actions.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Alison

1. Alison Krauss

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Grammy-winning bluegrass-country singer and musician.
• Cultural Impact: Alison Krauss has made significant contributions to American music through her award-winning albums, which combine elements of bluegrass, country, and folk.

2. Alison Moyet

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Renowned British singer-songwriter.
• Cultural Impact: Known for her soulful voice and hit singles like “Invisible” and “All Cried Out”, Alison Moyet has been a significant figure in the music scene since the 1980s.

Usage Over Time

The name Alison has seen a steady usage over time, particularly peaking in the late 20th century. According to SSA data, it was especially popular in the 1980s and 1990s. For example, in the 1980s, Alison was one of the top 100 names for girls in the United States. Its usage has slightly declined in the 21st century, but it remains a timeless choice for many parents.

Pronunciation Guide

Alison is phonetically pronounced as “AH-lih-suhn.” The emphasis is on the first syllable ‘AH’, followed by a softer ‘lih’ and ending with ‘suhn’.

Biblical Context

The name Alison does not have direct references in the Bible. However, its root name, Alice, and its meaning “noble” may resonate with various biblical themes that espouse nobility, virtue, and moral integrity. There are no specific biblical individuals directly linked to the name Alison.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

In numerology, the name Alison translates to the number 1. This number is associated with leadership, initiative, and pioneering. People named Alison may be seen as strong, independent, and capable of guiding others.

Variations

Common variations of Alison include Allison, Allyson, and Alisson.

Cultural Variants

Alison can be found in various cultures. For example, ‘Alizon’ is a variant found in France, and ‘Ailís’ is an Irish variant.

Popularity Information

According to the SSA, Alison has been a consistently popular name. For instance, in the 1980s, it was ranked among the top 100 names for girls, demonstrating its enduring appeal.

Concluding Statements

Alison is a timeless and noble name with a rich historical background and significant cultural usage. Its meaning “noble” underscores attributes of honor, integrity, and leadership, making it a praiseworthy choice for expectant parents looking for a name with strength and elegance. Whether considering historical figures or modern usage, Alison remains a wise and endearing choice.