Orlan is a unique and distinctive given name of French origin. Its meaning and history are deeply rooted in the country's rich cultural heritage.
The name Orlan is derived from the Old French word "or," which means "gold." This suggests that individuals named Orlan were likely born during a time when gold was particularly valuable or abundant, or perhaps they were believed to bring prosperity and good fortune into their families' lives. However, there is no definitive explanation for why this name was chosen specifically for an individual.
Throughout French history, the name Orlan has been associated with several notable figures. One of the most famous is Jean-François Orlan, a French painter who lived from 1735 to 1809. He was known for his portraits and landscapes, and his work can be found in various museums across Europe.
Another prominent figure named Orlan is the contemporary artist Michel François Marie (Orlan) Chapoutier, born in 1947. Known simply as "Orlan," he is famous for his controversial body art performances and provocative installations challenging societal norms and beauty standards.
Despite its French origins, Orlan has also gained popularity outside of Europe, particularly in the United States. Today, it is considered a unisex name, though historically it was more commonly given to boys. While its meaning remains rooted in the past, the name Orlan continues to evoke images of wealth, prosperity, and artistic expression.
The name Orlan has been given to a total of 946 babies in the United States over the years, with the earliest recorded birth being in 1898 and the most recent in 2022.
Throughout the early to mid-20th century, the name Orlan saw its highest popularity. Between 1921 and 1934, there were at least 21 births each year, with peaks of 31 births in 1921 and 23 births in both 1934 and 1935.
However, the name's popularity declined significantly after World War II. From 1946 to 1985, there were only six years where more than five babies were named Orlan, with most years seeing fewer than five births.
In recent decades, the name has seen a slight resurgence in popularity. Between 2002 and 2022, there have been at least five births each year, with peaks of seven births in both 2021 and 2022.
Overall, while Orlan may not be one of the most popular names in the United States, it has remained a consistent choice for parents over the past century.