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Roland

The name Roland is of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'hrod' meaning 'fame' and 'land' meaning 'land or territory'. It is historically significant due to its association with the medieval epic 'The Song of Roland', where Roland is a heroic knight fighting under Charlemagne. This name has been used throughout Europe as a symbol of bravery and chivalry.

IPA: /ˈroʊlənd/ · Simplified: ROH-lund

Male
Germanic
Medieval European
Western Europe
strong
noble
historical
brave

20/100

Popularity

Falling

10-Year Trend

5

Countries

2015

Peak Year

Meaning of Roland

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

The name Roland is of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'hrod' meaning 'fame' and 'land' meaning 'land or territory'. It is historically significant due to its association with the medieval epic 'The Song of Roland', where Roland is a heroic knight fighting under Charlemagne. This name has been used throughout Europe as a symbol of bravery and chivalry.

Does Roland flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Roland

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈroʊlənd/ · Simplified: ROH-lund

Nicknames for Roland

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Rolly
Rolo
Ro
Lanny

Roland name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

45

Germany

38

France

30

Hungary

28

Sweden

25

United States

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Rolando

Rolán

Orlando

Rowland

Names like Roland

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Roland

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

Roland is often associated with a strong, noble personality. Those named Roland may be seen as dependable and courageous, with a deep sense of duty and honor. The name carries a historical weight, evoking images of chivalry and heroism.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Roland

Well-known figures who share this name.

R

Roland Barthes

French literary theorist, philosopher, and critic; mid-20th century

Frequently asked questions about Roland

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Roland mean?
Here is the meaning behind Roland: The name Roland is of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'hrod' meaning 'fame' and 'land' meaning 'land or territory'. It is historically significant due to its association with the medieval epic 'The Song of Roland', where Roland is a heroic knight fighting under Charlemagne. This name has been used throughout Europe as a symbol of bravery and chivalry.
Is Roland a boy or girl name?
Roland is traditionally a boy's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Roland?
Roland scores 20/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2015.
What are good nicknames for Roland?
Popular nicknames for Roland: Rolly, Rolo, Ro, Lanny.
What names are similar to Roland?
Names similar to Roland: Rolf, Ronald, Rowan, Ruben — close in sound, origin, or style.

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