Meaning, origin, history
Reginald is a name of English origin that has been used for centuries. It is derived from the Latin name Reginaldus, which was composed of two elements: "reg" meaning "power" or "king," and "naldus," meaning "bold." Thus, the name Reginald means "bold power" or "bold king."
The name Reginald has a long history in English-speaking countries. It was first used during the Middle Ages as a Norman French personal name brought to England by the Normans after their conquest of England in 1066. The name quickly became popular among the nobility and was often passed down through generations.
One of the most famous bearers of the name Reginald was Saint Reginald, also known as Saint Reginald of Montbard (c. 1025-1096). He was a French nobleman who became a Cistercian monk and later served as the third abbot of Cîteaux Abbey in Burgundy. Saint Reginald is honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.
The name Reginald has also been used in literature throughout history. In William Shakespeare's play "Henry VI, Part 3," there is a character named Sir Reginald de Vaux. Additionally, the name was used for characters in works such as Sir Walter Scott's novel "Ivanhoe" and George du Maurier's novel "Trilby."
In recent years, the name Reginald has seen somewhat of a resurgence in popularity. While it may not be as common as some other names, it remains a distinctive choice with a rich history and meaningful origin. Overall, Reginald is an attractive option for parents seeking a unique yet classic name for their child.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Reginald since 1880
Total births
757
Total since 1880
Peak year
1968
33 births
in 1994
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years