Allen is an English surname of Norman French origin, derived from the Old French phrase 'alain,' meaning 'handsome' or 'strong'. It was originally a patronymic surname, meaning 'son of Alan', with Alan being a popular name among the Normans.
In Middle English literature, Allen is associated with the legend of King Arthur and has been used as a character name. In some African cultures, Allan is considered a symbol of strength and courage.
People named Allen are often seen as practical, resourceful, and confident individuals with a strong sense of responsibility.
The name Allen remains popular in the United States and the United Kingdom, although its popularity has declined slightly in recent years. It is still widely used in many countries around the world.