Meaning, origin, history
Harold is a name of English origin, derived from the Old Norse elements "hár" meaning "army" and "frid" meaning "peace". Therefore, Harold translates to "army peace".
The name Harold has been used in various forms across Europe for centuries. It was popularized by several historical figures, most notably Harold Godwinson, who was the last Anglo-Saxon King of England before the Norman conquest in 1066. His story is immortalized in the famous Battle of Hastings, where he was defeated by William the Conqueror.
In literature and culture, Harold also appears as a character in Mark Twain's novel "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn". Additionally, it was the name of the protagonist in J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye".
Today, Harold remains a classic yet timeless choice for parents looking for a traditional yet distinctive name for their child. It has consistently ranked among the top 1000 names in the United States since the early 20th century.
Overall, Harold is a strong and dignified name with a rich history behind it, making it an attractive option for those interested in names of English origin with a touch of regal elegance.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Harold since 1880
Total births
2,648
Total since 1880
Peak year
1927
99 births
in 2004
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years