Roland
Roland is a boy name of German origin meaning “Famous throughout the land”, pronounced ROH-land. It ranked #608 in the United States in 2025, given to 466 babies, and peaked at #98 in 1924. Common nicknames: Rollie, Roly, Lando.
How popular is Roland 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 Roland mean, and where does it come from?
Roland joins the Germanic hrod, "fame," to land, and belongs to the knight of Charlemagne whose death at Roncesvalles became The Song of Roland, the founding poem of French literature. Statues of Roland stand in German market squares as symbols of a town's liberties. American records hold the name since 1880. Its modern bearers are unusually varied: a French literary theorist, a German disaster-film director and the Japanese instrument company whose drum machines built most of hip-hop.
How is Roland used around the world?
Roland is used in 4 languages worldwide, with 8+ international variants.
Female FormRolanda
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Roland?
Famous People Named Roland
- Roland Barthes — French literary theorist and essayist
- Roland Emmerich — German film director
- Roland — Frankish military commander and hero of The Song of Roland
Similar Names to Roland
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Sibling Name Ideas for Roland
Looking for names that pair well with Roland? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Roland mean?
Roland is a boy name of German origin meaning "Famous throughout the land." Roland joins the Germanic hrod, "fame," to land, and belongs to the knight of Charlemagne whose death at Roncesvalles became The Song of Roland, the founding poem of French literature. Statues of Roland stand in German market squares as symbols of a town's liberties.
How do you pronounce Roland?
Roland is pronounced ROH-land. Common variations include Rolando, Orlando, Rolland.
Is Roland a boy name?
Yes, Roland is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Rollie, Roly, Lando.