Alane, pronounced uh-LAYN (/əˈleɪn/), is a feminine name of Celtic-Breton origin adapted as the female counterpart to the French Alain and ultimately deriving from a root meaning “little rock” or “handsome.” It surfaced intermittently in New York birth records between 1951 and 1968, registering five to fourteen occurrences each year and ranking between 270th and 303rd in statewide popularity. Though it never reached widespread use, Alane has found resonance in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking communities, where its graceful ending aligns with Latin naming conventions. Its concise two-syllable structure and layered heritage combine historical depth with pan-Latin appeal, offering a distinctive yet accessible option for modern parents.
Alane Ferguson - |