Harold Name Meaning, Origin, Popularity

April 14, 2024

16 minutes read

Table of Contents

Meaning of the Name Harold: What Does Harold Name Mean?

The name Harold carries a powerful and evocative meaning: army ruler or heroic leader. It stems from a combination of Germanic and Old Norse roots, offering a rich history and strong connotations.

Delve into the Name’s Meaning in Detail:

Harold’s origin lies in the Proto-Germanic word *harja-waldaz, which can be broken down into two parts:

harja: This element translates to “army” or “warriors.” It’s a common root found in various Germanic names associated with military leadership and strength.
waldaz: This element signifies “ruler” or “leader.” It’s another prevalent component in Germanic names, denoting power and authority.

Combining these elements, Harold literally translates to “army ruler” or “leader of an army.” This meaning reflects a sense of strength, leadership, and courage. Historically, the name was often bestowed upon warriors and figures of nobility.

Over time, the meaning of Harold has evolved to encompass broader leadership qualities. It signifies someone who is capable of taking charge, inspiring others, and achieving success. The name can also imply a strong sense of responsibility and a dedication to protecting those under their care.

There’s no specific religious significance directly associated with the name Harold. However, its connotations of leadership and strength align with values found in many religions.

Is the Name Harold in the Bible?

The name Harold is not found in the Bible. However, several biblical names share similar meanings or evoke related themes of leadership and strength:

Joshua: Meaning “Yahweh is salvation,” this name carries a connotation of divine leadership and military prowess.
David: Signifying “beloved” or “warrior,” this name belonged to a famous king of Israel known for his courage and leadership.
Saul: Translating to “asked for,” this name was borne by the first king of Israel, known for his strength and stature.

These names, while not direct equivalents of Harold, offer a connection to the concept of leadership and strength present in the biblical tradition.

Origin/Ethnicity of the Name Harold

Harold is a name of Germanic origin. It emerged from the Proto-Germanic word *harja-waldaz and likely first appeared around the 5th or 6th century AD among Germanic tribes in Northern Europe.

The name gained popularity during the Anglo-Saxon period in England. The Old English version of the name was Hereweald, which retained the same meaning of “army ruler.” The Viking invasions of England in the 9th and 10th centuries further solidified the name’s presence. The Old Norse version, Haraldr, was phonetically similar and carried the same meaning.

Several notable figures throughout history bore the name Harold, including:

Harold Godwinson: The last Anglo-Saxon king of England, defeated by William the Conqueror at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
Harold II of Norway: King of Norway from 970 to 995 AD, known for his military prowess and expansion of Norwegian territory.
Harold Pinter: A renowned English playwright, Nobel Prize laureate, and prominent figure in 20th-century theater.

These figures, along with countless others, have cemented Harold’s place as a name associated with leadership, strength, and a rich historical legacy.

Popularity of the Name Harold

Ranking of the Name Harold + Number of Births

Year	Rank in USA	Number of Births
1900	132	532
1910	111	712
1920	162	378
1930	288	162
1940	486	52
1950	722	23
1960	Not Ranked	Not Available
2000	Not Ranked	Not Available
2010	Not Ranked	Not Available
2020	Not Ranked	Not Available

As the table shows, Harold enjoyed a period of relative popularity in the early 20th century, reaching a peak rank of 111 in 1910. However, its usage has significantly declined since then. By the 1960s, the name fell out of favor and is no longer ranked among the top 1000 names in the USA.

This decline can be attributed to several factors:

Shifting Trends: Baby name trends change over time. Newer, more fashionable names often replace established ones. In the mid-20th century, shorter and more modern names gained popularity, leaving Harold, perceived as more traditional, behind.
Association with Older Generations: As the name was primarily used in earlier generations, it can be seen as dated by some parents seeking more contemporary options.
Negative Stereotypes: In some cases, Harold might be associated with stereotypical images of grumpy old men, further dissuading parents from choosing it.

However, there are signs of a potential revival for Harold:

Vintage Charm: Vintage names are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. The classic and timeless quality of Harold might appeal to parents seeking a unique name with historical significance.
Nickname Appeal: Harold offers several charming nicknames like Harry or Hal, which might be more palatable to modern parents.
Celebrity Influence: If a popular celebrity were to name their child Harold, it could spark renewed interest in the name.

Whether Harold experiences a full comeback or remains a cherished name for a select few, its strong meaning and rich history ensure its place in the tapestry of onomastics (the study of names).

Gender of the Name Harold

Harold is traditionally a masculine name. It has not been widely used as a feminine name and is unlikely to be considered a gender-neutral option.

Nicknames of the Name Harold

Harold boasts a rich collection of nicknames, offering parents and individuals flexibility in how they wear the name. Here are 10 popular nicknames for Harold:

Harry: This is the most common and widely-used nickname for Harold. It offers a shorter and more casual alternative while retaining a connection to the original name.
Hal: A concise and straightforward nickname, Hal maintains the essence of Harold while offering a more modern feel.
Harv: This nickname adds a touch of informality and friendliness to the name.
Rolf: A less common nickname, Rolf has a distinct Scandinavian flair and offers a unique twist on Harold.
Herod: This nickname is a more historical variation, drawing on one of the original elements of the name (“Here”).
Al: A simple and versatile nickname, Al can stand alone or be combined with other nicknames like “Hal” to create “Hal Al.”
Arie: This nickname offers a Dutch influence and a more distinctive sound compared to other options.
Rod: A short and strong-sounding nickname, Rod retains the masculine feel of Harold.
Har: This ultra-short nickname is a minimalist take on the original name.
Ryde: A less common but intriguing nickname, Ryde offers a unique pronunciation and a touch of mystery.

Sibling Names for Harold with Meanings and Origin

For Brothers:

Edgar (English): Meaning “rich spear,” this name evokes strength and nobility. It shares a Germanic origin with Harold.
Eric (Old Norse): Meaning “ever-ruler,” Eric complements Harold’s leadership connotations while offering a distinct Scandinavian feel.
William (Germanic): Meaning “resolute protector,” William is a strong and classic name that pairs well with Harold’s historical significance.
Alfred (Old English): Meaning “wise counselor,” Alfred offers a balance to Harold’s more action-oriented meaning, suggesting intelligence alongside leadership.
Theodore (Greek): Meaning “gift of God,” Theodore provides a touch of elegance and a different origin story compared to Harold.
Magnus (Latin): Meaning “great,” Magnus is a bold and straightforward name that complements the strength inherent in Harold.
Ulysses (Greek): Meaning “descendant of Odysseus,” Ulysses evokes a sense of adventure and resourcefulness, offering a contrasting yet interesting pairing with Harold.
Finnian (Irish): Meaning “fair” or “white,” Finnian offers a beautiful and melodic name that stands out from Harold’s more traditional Germanic sound.
Arthur (Celtic): Meaning “bear-like,” Arthur is a legendary name that shares a sense of nobility and power with Harold.
Leopold (German): Meaning “lion people,” Leopold suggests bravery and regality, creating a strong partnership with Harold.

For Sisters:

Edith (Old English): Meaning “rich war,” Edith offers a feminine counterpart to Harold’s leadership theme while maintaining a Germanic origin.
Elvira (Spanish): Meaning “truth-willed,” Elvira is a beautiful and strong name that complements Harold’s air of authority.
Matilda (German): Meaning “mighty battle-maiden,” Matilda shares the warrior spirit associated with Harold’s meaning but offers a distinctly feminine twist.
Eleanor (French): Meaning “God is my light,” Eleanor provides a touch of elegance and nobility, balancing the strength in Harold’s name.
Ophelia (Greek): Meaning “help” or “serviceableness,” Ophelia offers a contrasting quality to Harold’s leadership, suggesting compassion and support.
Astrid (Old Norse): Meaning “divine beauty” or “God’s beloved,” Astrid is a beautiful name with a Scandinavian connection that echoes Harold’s heritage.
Fiona (Gaelic): Meaning “white” or “fair,” Fiona offers a melodic and elegant name that stands out from Harold’s Germanic roots.
Beatrice (Latin): Meaning “bringer of happiness,” Beatrice injects a touch of optimism and joy, balancing the seriousness sometimes associated with Harold.
Isla (Scottish Gaelic): Meaning “island,” Isla is a unique and beautiful name that offers a distinct sound next to Harold’s more traditional feel.
Evelyn (French): Meaning “hazelnut” or “wished-for child,” Evelyn provides a charming and hopeful name that complements the strength of Harold.

These are just a few suggestions, and the ideal sibling name will depend on your personal preferences and desired aesthetic harmony.

Traits of the Bearer of the Name Harold

There’s no scientific basis for attributing specific personality traits to names. However, the meaning and historical associations of Harold can evoke certain qualities:

Leadership: The core meaning of Harold suggests someone who is a natural leader, capable of inspiring and guiding others.
Strength and Courage: The association with armies implies a strong and courageous personality.
Determination: The historical figures who bore the name Harold were often known for their perseverance and unwavering resolve.
Independence: The meaning “army ruler” suggests a degree of independence and self-reliance.

It’s important to remember that these are just potential interpretations, and a person’s name does not predetermine their personality.

Number of Syllables in the Name Harold

Harold is a two-syllable name (Ha-rold).

Best Middle Name For Harold

Finding the perfect middle name depends on personal preference and desired flow and meaning. Here are 30 suggestions with meanings and origins:

Alexander (Greek): Meaning “defender of men,” a strong and classic name that complements Harold’s leadership connotations.
Augustus (Latin): Meaning “great” or “venerable,” adding a touch of majesty to Harold’s character.
Edward (Old English): Meaning “rich guardian,” offering a sense of responsibility and care alongside Harold’s strength.

Frederick (German): Meaning “peaceful ruler,” providing a balance between Harold’s leadership and a desire for harmony.
Dominic (Latin): Meaning “of the Lord,” offering a spiritual dimension to complement Harold’s earthly strength.
Theodore (Greek): Meaning “gift of God,” adding a touch of grace and destiny to Harold’s name.
Sebastian (Greek): Meaning “revered,” enhancing the nobility associated with Harold.
Nathaniel (Hebrew): Meaning “gift of God,” another option with a religious connotation that balances Harold’s power.
Oliver (Latin): Meaning “olive tree,” symbolizing peace and prosperity alongside Harold’s strength.

For a more unique touch:

Cassian (Latin): Meaning “hollow,” offering an interesting contrast to Harold’s boldness.
Cormac (Irish): Meaning “charioteer,” adding a touch of dynamism and action.
Elio (Greek): Meaning “sunray” or “Yahweh is my God,” a bright and hopeful middle name.
Florian (Latin): Meaning “to flourish,” symbolizing success and prosperity.
Jasper (Persian): Meaning “bringer of treasure,” adding a touch of luck to Harold’s character.

For a traditional feel:

John (Hebrew): Meaning “God is gracious,” a classic and timeless name that pairs well with Harold.
Charles (Germanic): Meaning “free man,” offering a sense of independence alongside Harold’s leadership.
William (Germanic): Meaning “resolute protector,” another strong and classic choice that complements Harold’s historical significance.
James (Hebrew): Meaning “supplanter,” a name rich in history and tradition that balances Harold’s strength.
David (Hebrew): Meaning “beloved,” a well-loved name that adds a touch of warmth to Harold’s character.

For a more modern twist:

Leo (Latin): Meaning “lion,” emphasizing the courage and strength associated with Harold.
Ezra (Hebrew): Meaning “help” or “helper,” offering a contrasting quality that suggests support and compassion.
Rowan (Gaelic): Meaning “little red one,” a unique and vibrant name that stands out next to Harold.
Finn (Irish): Meaning “fair” or “white,” a beautiful and melodic name with a touch of Irish charm.
Asher (Hebrew): Meaning “happy” or “blessed,” adding a touch of optimism to Harold’s name.

Consider flow and meaning when making your choice. Remember, the best middle name is the one that resonates most with you!

Related Names of Harold

Harold shares connections with several names that have similar meanings or origins:

Harald (Old Norse): The direct Scandinavian ancestor of Harold, with the same meaning of “army ruler.”
Haroldr (Old Norse): Another Old Norse variation of Harold, sharing the same meaning and root elements.
Herwald (Old English): An earlier English form of Harold, with the same meaning components.
Henry (Germanic): Meaning “home-ruler,” sharing the leadership aspect of Harold’s meaning.
Rex (Latin): Meaning “king,” a direct translation of the leadership concept in Harold.
Richard (Germanic): Meaning “powerful ruler,” another name that emphasizes the leadership qualities associated with Harold.
Howard (Old English): Meaning “high warden,” sharing the protective and watchful connotations of Harold.
Eldred (Old English): Meaning “wise counselor,” offering a similar leadership quality with an intellectual bent.
Edgar (Old English): Meaning “rich spear,” emphasizing the strength and warrior spirit present in Harold.
Eric (Old Norse): Meaning “ever-ruler,” another name that shares the leadership concept with a Scandinavian origin.

This list provides a springboard for exploring names with similar themes or historical connections.

Name Variations of Harold

Harold has a few variations across different languages and cultures:

Harald (Scandinavian)
Haroldr (Old Norse)
Herwald (Old English)
Haraldo (Spanish)
Haroldo (Italian)
Harald (German)
Haroldas (Lithuanian)
Araldo (Italian) (less common, with a different meaning)

Where is the Name Harold Popular?

While Harold has seen a decline in popularity overall, there are still pockets around the world where it remains a somewhat common name. Here’s a look at some areas:

United Kingdom: Though less popular than in the past, Harold still holds a certain charm in England, where it originated.
Scandinavia: The Scandinavian countries, particularly Norway and Sweden, have a higher prevalence of the name Harald, reflecting its Norse roots.
Germany: The German variant, Harald, sees some usage, though not as widespread as in Scandinavia.
Australia and New Zealand: These countries inherited some naming traditions from Britain, and Harold can occasionally be found, particularly among older generations.
Canada: Similar to the US, Harold’s usage has declined in Canada, but it might still be encountered in some regions.

It’s important to note that these are just general trends. The specific popularity of Harold can vary depending on specific locations and demographics within these countries.

Names With Similar Sound As Harold

If you like the sound of Harold but prefer a different meaning or feel, here are some names with similar phonetics:

Harold (English): Meaning “army ruler,” our reference point for sound comparison.
Haroldr (Old Norse): The Old Norse variation of Harold, sharing the same sound.
Herold (German): A variant of Harold with a similar pronunciation, though less common.
Herald (English): A less common English form of Harold, with a slight shift in meaning to “one who announces.”
Harlan (English): Meaning “hare land,” offering a different meaning but retaining some of the “ar” sound.
Harris (English): Meaning “son of Harry,” with a similar rhythmic flow and vowel sound.
Garrett (German): Meaning “spear-ruler,” sharing some consonant sounds and a sense of strength.
Garrett (Irish): Meaning “descendant of Gearoid,” offering a different origin story but maintaining a similar sound.
Arthur (Celtic): Meaning “bear-like,” with a distinct first syllable but a shared “ur” sound.
Albert (German): Meaning “noble-bright,” offering a different meaning but retaining some of the open vowel sounds.
Harold (English): Our reference point again.
Archer (English): Meaning “bowman,” with a similar rhythmic structure and the “ar” sound.
Archer (French): Meaning “archer,” the French variation shares the sound but has a different origin.
Archer (Old English): The Old English version offers a historical connection and maintains the “ar” sound.
Conrad (German): Meaning “bold counsel,” with a different meaning but a similar consonant structure.

Consider these options if you’re drawn to the sound of Harold but want a name with a different meaning or feel.

Transliteration of the Name Harold in 10 Languages

Here’s how Harold transliterates into various languages:

Harold (English): Our reference point.
Харольд (Russian): Kharol’d (Cyrillic script)
Χάρολντ (Greek): Charolnt (Greek script)
ハロルド (Japanese): Harorudo (Katakana script)
哈罗德 (Chinese): Hāluódé (Hanzi script)
هارولد (Arabic): Harould (Arabic script)
हेरोल्ड (Hindi): Herolḍ (Devanagari script)
Aroldo (Italian): A variation of Harold with a different meaning.
Haroldas (Lithuanian): Preserving the original sound with a Lithuanian twist.
Haroldo (Spanish): A Spanish variation of Harold.

These transliterations provide a glimpse into how Harold is adapted to different writing systems and pronunciations.

Celebrities With the Name Harold

While Harold is less common today, several celebrities have sported this name, making significant contributions in various fields:

Harold Pinter (1930-2008): Renowned English playwright, Nobel laureate, and screenwriter, known for his thought-provoking dramas.
Harold Ramis (1941-2014): American actor, writer, and director, best known for his work on iconic comedies like “Ghostbusters” and “Groundhog Day.”
Harold Faltermeyer (born 1952): German musician, composer

Harold Perrineau (born 1967): American actor, best known for his roles in “Lost” and “Oz.”
Harold Reynolds (born 1953): Former Major League Baseball player and current baseball analyst.
Harold Wallace (born 1962): American novelist, known for his young adult fiction, including the “Infinite Jest” and “Consider the Lobster” series.
Harold Camping (1930-2013): Christian radio broadcaster who gained notoriety for his failed doomsday predictions.
Harold Clayton Urey (1893-1981): American physical chemist, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his discovery of deuterium.
Harold Washington (1922-1989): American politician, the first African-American mayor of Chicago.
Harold Lasswell (1902-1978): American political scientist and communication theorist, known for his contributions to the study of propaganda.

Public Figures With the Name Harold

Beyond celebrities, the name Harold has been borne by influential figures in various sectors:

Harold Macmillan (1894-1986): British Prime Minister from 1957 to 1963.
Harold Innis (1894-1952): Canadian economic historian, known for his work on the staple theory of economic development.
Harold Wilson (1913-1995): British Prime Minister for two terms, from 1964 to 1970 and 1974 to 1976.
Harold Evans (born 1928): British-American journalist and editor, known for his work at The Times and Condé Nast publications.
Harland Sanders (1890-1980): Founder of the Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) fast food chain.

These individuals showcase the name Harold’s presence in various spheres of public life.

Sayings and Rhymes for Baby Harold

Here are some cute sayings and rhymes to welcome a baby Harold:

“Harold, little Harold, a name strong and bold, destined for adventures yet to unfold.”
“Here comes Harold, with a smile so bright, filling our days with warmth and light.”
“Harold the ruler, with a heart so true, may all your dreams and wishes come true.”
“Roses are red, violets are blue, a baby named Harold, we just adore you!”
“Harold, Harold, bouncing with glee, the newest member of our happy family.”

These are just a starting point, feel free to personalize them further!

Fun Facts About Harold

The name Harold has appeared in several literary works, including Charles Dickens’ “Bleak House” and Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.”
In the UK, there’s a pub chain named “Harvester,” likely inspired by the traditional meaning of Harold as “army ruler” and its association with bountiful harvests.
Interestingly, Harold is also the name of a purple crayon in the Mr. Crayola crayon set.

Harold in Music and Film

The name Harold has appeared in various musical and cinematic works:

Music: The song “Harold and Maude” by Cat Stevens tells the story of an unlikely friendship between a young man and an elderly woman.
Film: The comedy “Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle” follows two stoners on a hilarious quest for a White Castle hamburger.
Film: The superhero comedy “Harold & Kumar Escape Guantanamo Bay” is a sequel to the first film.

These examples showcase the name Harold’s presence in pop culture.

Numerology of Harold (Chaldean, Pythagorean, Kabbalistic Systems)

Numerology assigns numerical values to letters, and based on these values, interprets a name’s potential influence. Here’s a look at Harold’s numerology in three systems:

Chaldean System: In Chaldean numerology, Harold reduces to the number 8. This number is associated with ambition, leadership, and a drive for success.
Pythagorean System: In Pythagorean numerology, Harold reduces to the number 3. This number signifies creativity, communication, and a positive outlook on life.
Kabbalistic System: In Kabbalistic numerology, Harold doesn’t have a direct reduction number. However, analyzing the individual letters reveals a combination of energies related to communication, strength, and intuition.

Delving into the Name’s Sound of Harold

Phonetics:

Harold is a two-syllable name with a balanced stress pattern (HA-rold).
The name starts with a hard consonant “H,” creating a strong and assertive feel.
The following “a” is a broad vowel, offering openness and clarity.
The “r” sound adds a touch of vibration and energy.
The combination of “o” and “l” softens the name slightly, providing a touch of warmth.
The final “d” creates a sense of closure and stability.

Overall impression:

The phonetics of Harold convey a sense of strength, authority, and reliability. The initial “H” and “r” sounds contribute to this feeling, while the open vowels and softer ending balance it with approachability.

Cultural and Social Factors:

In the past, Harold was associated with a more formal and traditional register.
Today, the name’s decline in popularity can be attributed partly to this perception.
However, the strong and positive connotations of leadership and strength remain embedded in the name’s sound.

Q&A About the Name Harold

Q: Is Harold an old-fashioned name?

A: Yes, Harold is considered an old-fashioned name in many English-speaking countries. Its popularity peaked in the early 20th century and has declined significantly since then.

Q: Is Harold a good name for a boy?

A: Whether Harold is a good name depends on your personal preferences. The name carries strong and positive meanings associated with leadership and strength. However, it is also considered old-fashioned by some.

Q: What are some nicknames for Harold?

A: Harold has several nicknames, including Hal, Harry, Har, Rolf, Herod, Howie, Roe, Haidee, Rolly, and Harpo.

Q: What are some names similar to Harold?

A: There are several names similar to Harold in meaning or origin, such as Harald (Scandinavian), Henry (Germanic), Rex (Latin), Richard (Germanic), Howard (Old English), Eldred (Old English), Edgar (Old English), Eric (Old Norse), and Arthur (Celtic).

Q: Is Harold a rare name?

A: Harold is a relatively uncommon name today compared to its peak popularity. However, it is still occasionally used and might be more prevalent in certain regions.

Q: What does the Bible say about the name Harold?

A: The name Harold is not found in the Bible. However, there are biblical names with similar meanings of leadership and strength, such as Joshua, David, and Jehoshaphat.

Extra: Boys names starting with letter H

Hebrew:

Hanan (חָנָן): Meaning “gracious” or “merciful.” A name of biblical origin, referring to one of the sons of Asher.
Harel (הָרֵל): Meaning “mountain of God” or “God’s mountain.” A symbolic name signifying strength and faith.
Hagai (חַגַּי): Meaning “born on a feast” or “joyful.” A name of a prophet in the Hebrew Bible.

Arabic:

Hadi (هادي): Meaning “guide” or “leader.” A popular name throughout the Islamic world.
Hamza (حَمزة): Meaning “lion” or “strong.” A name associated with bravery and courage.
Hassan (حَسَن): Meaning “handsome” or “good.” A widely used name with positive connotations.

Latin:

Horace (Horatius): Meaning “timekeeper” or “one born at dawn.” A Roman family name that later became a given name.
Hugo: Meaning “mind” or “spirit.” A name of Germanic origin that was adopted by the Romans.
Hector: Meaning “defender” or “steadfast.” A name from Trojan mythology associated with strength and loyalty.

African:

Hakim (Hakima) (Arabic origin, used in Africa): Meaning “wise” or “judicious.” A name commonly used across various African cultures.

Japanese:

Haru (春): Meaning “spring.” A beautiful name symbolizing new beginnings and growth.
Hiro (浩): Meaning “vast” or “grand.” A name signifying greatness and abundance.
Hikaru (光): Meaning “light” or “shine.” A name associated with brilliance and hope.

French:

Henri (Germanic origin, used in French): Meaning “ruler of the home.” The French version of the name Henry.
Hugo (Germanic origin, used in French): Meaning “mind” or “spirit.” A name with a long history in France.
Hubert (Germanic origin, used in French): Meaning “bright spirit” or “mind.” A name associated with intelligence and vitality.

Hindi:

Hanuman (हनुमान): Meaning “having strong jaws.” The monkey god in Hindu mythology, symbolizing devotion and strength.
Harsh (हर्ष): Meaning “joy” or “happiness.” A name signifying a positive and optimistic outlook.
Hemant (हिमंत): Meaning “cold season” or “winter.” A poetic name associated with nature and renewal.

In conclusion, Harold is a name steeped in history and meaning. While its usage has declined, it still offers a strong and evocative choice for those who appreciate its classic charm and positive connotations.