Alison \a-li-son\ as a girl's name (also used as boy's name Alison), is pronounced AL-ih-son. It is of Old German origin, and the meaning of Alison is "noble, exalted". Norman French diminutive form of Alice. May have originated as a surname, meaning "Alice's son". Common in medieval times, and revived in England in the 20th century with a strong Scottish flavor. Allie and Ally are pet forms. Actress Allison Janney.

Alison has 26 variant forms: Aili, Alie, Alisann, Alisanne, Alisoun, Alisun, Allcen, Allcenne, Allicen, Allicenne, Allie, Allisann, Allisanne, Allison, Allisoun, Allsun, Ally, Allysann, Allysanne, Allyson, Allysoun, Alysan, Alysann, Alysanne, Alyson and Alysoun.

For more information, see also the related name Alcinda.

Baby names that sound like Alison are Alisan, Allisun and Alicen.