Origin and Meaning of the Name Parlan

Parlan is a baby name of Scottish origin, used for boys. Parthalan is another Scottish variation of this name.

The meaning of Parlan is interpreted as “farmer” or “ploughman.” It is thought to have an older history, being a variation of the Hebrew name Bartholomew which means “son of the furrow.”

History

Over time the name Parlan was anglicized to MacPharlain, McFarlane, MacFarland, McFarlan, or McFarling. Parlan, as that spelling is historically not a popular name. Perhaps the popularity of Parlan is better determined by the more common anglicized versions of the name.

A Highland Scottish clan, Clann Phàrlain, were descendants of medieval Earls of Lennox. This “Clan MacFarlane” occupied land on the western shore of Loch Lomond.

Famous Parlans

The Fisher King, also known as the Maimed King, of the King Arthur legends, was called Pellum, or Parlan. The Fisher King was wounded by fragments of sword and so could not ride and took up fishing as a pastime.

Useful Resources

Discover the meaning and origin of other Scottish boys’ names.