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Rolf

Rolf is derived from the Old Norse name HrólfR, which is a short form of Hrōðwulfaz meaning 'famous wolf.' The name has historical significance in Scandinavia, reflecting the warrior culture and the reverence for wolves as symbols of strength and cunning. It became popular in medieval times and has continued to be used, especially in Northern Europe.

IPA: /roʊlf/ · Simplified: rolf

Male
Old Norse
Scandinavian
Northern Europe
strong
traditional
northern
bold

20/100

Popularity

Falling

10-Year Trend

5

Countries

2015

Peak Year

Meaning of Rolf

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

Rolf is derived from the Old Norse name HrólfR, which is a short form of Hrōðwulfaz meaning 'famous wolf.' The name has historical significance in Scandinavia, reflecting the warrior culture and the reverence for wolves as symbols of strength and cunning. It became popular in medieval times and has continued to be used, especially in Northern Europe.

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

How to pronounce Rolf

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /roʊlf/ · Simplified: rolf

Nicknames for Rolf

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Rolly
Roffy
Rollie
Rof

Rolf 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.

40

Norway

38

Sweden

35

Germany

33

Denmark

30

Netherlands

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Roulf

Raul

Roelof

Names like Rolf

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Rudolf

Wolfgang

Collections featuring Rolf

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

Rolf is often associated with a strong and commanding presence. People with this name tend to be seen as reliable and capable leaders. They may exhibit a blend of traditional values with a modern, adaptable approach to challenges, often admired for their courage and integrity.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

August 27

Famous people named Rolf

Well-known figures who share this name.

R

Rolf Martin Zinkernagel

Swiss immunologist and Nobel Prize laureate (born 1944)

R

Rolf Harris

Australian entertainer and musician (1930-2023)

Frequently asked questions about Rolf

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

What does Rolf mean?
Here is the meaning behind Rolf: Rolf is derived from the Old Norse name HrólfR, which is a short form of Hrōðwulfaz meaning 'famous wolf.' The name has historical significance in Scandinavia, reflecting the warrior culture and the reverence for wolves as symbols of strength and cunning. It became popular in medieval times and has continued to be used, especially in Northern Europe.
Is Rolf a boy or girl name?
Rolf is traditionally a boy's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Rolf?
Rolf scores 20/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2015.
What are good nicknames for Rolf?
Popular nicknames for Rolf: Rolly, Roffy, Rollie, Rof.
What names are similar to Rolf?
Names similar to Rolf: Rudolf, Roland, Olaf, Wolfgang — close in sound, origin, or style.

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