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What does your surname mean?

As every genealogist knows, we're all the product of our family's history. But genetics aren't the only thing that we pass down the generations. Used to identify our familial bonds, surnames link us to even our most distant ancestors. If your curious about your family history, doing a surname search is a great place to start.

The origin of your last name can reveal a lot about your earliest ancestors' birthplaces, occupations and more.

Look for your surname

Surname of the Week

Allen

If you meet a Allen, tell them...

The Allen surname is believed to be patronymic, referring to those who are the son or descendant of Alan or Allen (a common forename from the Norman era). Allen is a mostly English and Scottish surname, with Celtic roots. It can sometimes refer to someone who is from or near an Allen (green plain) or the river Allen, of which there are several.

Interesting facts about Allens

How common is your surname?

40th most common surname in the UK

We have 600,000 records for the Allen surname. The oldest one dates back to 1220.

Who were Allens most likely to marry?

Our Marriage record sets tell us which families married Allens.

What are the most common Allen first names?

  • John
  • William
  • Mary
  • Elizabeth

Our birth record sets tell us the names of Allen family members

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