US Popularity:1921
Origin:German
Other Origin(s):British, Norse, Scandinavian
Meaning:Army ruler, leader of an army, heroic leader
Harold is a boy’s name that derives from Old English Hereweald, Germanic Hariwald, and Old Norse Haraldr. Harold means “army ruler,” “leader of an army,” and “heroic leader,” and this name and its variants were quite popular among Scandinavian settlers and in the royal courts of England, Norway, and Denmark. Centuries later, Harold is a well-known baby name thanks to countless historical figures and fictional characters in comic books and TV shows but surprisingly isn’t overused. If you’re searching for a title that will help baby stand out on the schoolyard, Harold is the perfect blend of timelessness and boyish charm.

Famous People Named Harold

Wondering who else shares this name? Check out these well known people who made this baby name famous.
  • Harold Baines
    Baseball Player
  • Harold Perrineau
    Actor
  • Harold Pinter
    Playwright
  • Harold
    Aelfgifu and King Cnut

How Popular Is The Name Harold?

The Bump Ranking

Overall:Harold is currently #2096 on The Bump
Boy:Harold is currently #1181 on The Bump Boy Names

U.S. Births

Overall:Harold is currently #1921 in U.S. births
Boy:Harold is currently #926 in U.S. births

Yearly Ranking Change:

Year:
2023
#926
in 2023
+ 3
from 2022
In comparison to the previous year's data
Sources
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