起源与历史

English patronymic or Breton locational surname of uncertain ultimate origin, possibly derived from the Old Breton personal name 'Alan', itself of disputed etymology — perhaps from a Celtic root meaning 'rock' or 'harmony'. The name was introduced to Britain by Breton followers of William the Conqueror in 1066 and rapidly spread throughout England. It may alternatively derive from the given name Alan, whose bearers included Alain Fergant, Duke of Brittany, an important magnate in the Norman settlement of England.