Harold
Harold is a boy name of English origin meaning “Army ruler”, pronounced HAIR-uld. It ranked #993 in the United States in 2025, given to 230 babies, and peaked at #12 in 1921. Common nicknames: Hal, Harry, Haz.
How popular is Harold in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Harold mean, and where does it come from?
Harold is the Old English Hereweald and the Norse Haraldr — here, "army," and weald, "power" — and it belongs first to the king who took an arrow at Hastings in 1066 and lost England to the Normans. The Victorians revived it, and it reached twelfth place for American boys in 1921. Two British prime ministers, a Nobel-winning playwright and the man who hung from the clock face in Safety Last have carried it since. It is out of fashion now, which places it exactly where Arthur and Henry stood thirty years ago.
How is Harold used around the world?
Harold is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 12+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Harold?
Famous People Named Harold
- Harold Pinter — British playwright and Nobel laureate in Literature
- Harold Wilson — Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
- Harold Lloyd — American silent film comedian
Similar Names to Harold
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Sibling Name Ideas for Harold
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Harold mean?
Harold is a boy name of English origin meaning "Army ruler." Harold is the Old English Hereweald and the Norse Haraldr — here, "army," and weald, "power" — and it belongs first to the king who took an arrow at Hastings in 1066 and lost England to the Normans. The Victorians revived it, and it reached twelfth place for American boys in 1921.
How do you pronounce Harold?
Harold is pronounced HAIR-uld. Common variations include Harald, Haroldo, Herold.
Is Harold a boy name?
Yes, Harold is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Hal, Harry, Haz.