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Alister

OriginEnglish variation of Alasdair, Scottish
Meaning"defending men"
GenderBoy & girl
US rank · boys#1689

2025 SSA

US rank · girlsUnranked

Below 5 births

About Alister

This anglicized spelling of the already anglicized Alistair originates from the Scottish form of Alexander. Some might think it lacks the flair of the -air ending, while others might find it sleeker and simpler. Either way, in the US, it's the second most popular spelling after Alistair, ahead of both Alasdair and Alastair, while in the UK, it is in use, but least preferred of the four.

Alister is also given to girls.

Pronounced AL-uh-ster.

As of October 2026, Alister ranked #1689 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #1340 in 2022.

World rankings

Alister for boys

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Famous Alisters

  • Alister Edgar McGrathBoy

    Northern Irish theologian

  • Alister MacKenzieBoy

    British golf course architect

  • Alister Clavering HardyBoy

    English marine biologist

  • Alister Murray MurdochBoy

    Australian RAAF commander

  • Alister ClarkBoy

    Australian rose breeder

  • Alister McRaeBoy

    British racing driver

  • Alister Donald Miles McIntoshBoy

    New Zealand diplomat

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