nolen

Nolen is a surname that is most often found in English-speaking countries and is occasionally used as a given name. In genealogical records, Nolen frequently appears as a variant spelling of Nolan, though the exact origin can vary by family.

The Nolan surname derives from the Gaelic Ó Nualláin, meaning "descendant of Nuallán." Nolen is sometimes treated as an orthographic variant arising from anglicization or regional pronunciation; other families may have adopted Nolen independently through immigration or transcription practices. Because surnames were standardized late and often altered, Nolen may reflect multiple lineages rather than a single ancestral source.

In terms of distribution, Nolen is most common in the United States, with smaller communities in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. It is less common than Nolan but remains established as a family name.

Notable bearers have appeared in various fields such as sports, entertainment, and academia, reflecting the name's presence in public life. The spelling is often confused with Nolan or Noland in historical records due to variations in spelling over time.

Related names include Nolan and Noland.