Holding steady, #8,243 for boys today.
Popularity of Rollo since 1881
Babies named Rollo per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1918, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Rollo's real moment was 1881.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 45 |
| 1890s | 46 |
| 1900s | 21 |
| 1910s | 194 |
| 1920s | 222 |
| 1930s | 159 |
| 1940s | 69 |
| 1950s | 44 |
| 1960s | 14 |
| 1970s | 22 |
| 1980s | 11 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 45 |
| 2020s | 57 |
Meaning & origin
Rollo is a rare but historically weighty name with Scandinavian and Germanic roots. It entered the U.S. records in 1881, the same year it reached its peak rank of 8,243. The name has remained stable in rarity, never breaking into common usage. Its lack of top-state data reflects its extreme scarcity, making it a distinctive choice for families drawn to Viking heritage or Norman history. The name's meaning, 'famous wolf', connects to its Old Norse elements, evoking strength and renown.
Rollo is the Latinized form of the Old Norse name Hrólfr, itself a contracted form of Hróðulfr (Hróðr 'fame' + ulfr 'wolf'). The name was borne by the 9th-century Viking leader Rollo, who became the first ruler of Normandy. It entered English usage through Norman influence, though it has remained rare, experiencing modest use in the 19th century.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Rolly
Sibling names for Rollo
Names that share Rollo's style, for a brother or sister.
