A 1900s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Rudolf since 1882
Babies named Rudolf per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1927, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Rudolf's real moment was 1909.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 11 |
| 1890s | 17 |
| 1900s | 62 |
| 1910s | 407 |
| 1920s | 585 |
| 1930s | 419 |
| 1940s | 323 |
| 1950s | 349 |
| 1960s | 221 |
| 1970s | 173 |
| 1980s | 137 |
| 1990s | 104 |
| 2000s | 69 |
| 2010s | 41 |
| 2020s | 33 |
Meaning & origin
Rudolf, meaning 'famous wolf,' is a classic Germanic name with royal and noble associations. First recorded in U.S. data in 1882, it reached its peak rank in 1909, reflecting a time when Germanic names were more common among immigrants. After decades of decline, the name has been experiencing a quiet renaissance since 2014, appealing to parents seeking traditional, strong-sounding names with historical depth. The name remains rare today, with fewer than five occurrences per year in recent U.S. births, making it a distinctive choice for those drawn to its old-world charm and powerful imagery.
Rudolf derives from the Old High German elements 'hruod' (fame) and 'wolf' (wolf), meaning 'famous wolf.' It has been a traditional name among German royalty and nobility, most notably associated with Rudolf I, the first Habsburg king of Germany. The name spread across Europe in various forms and saw particular popularity in Germanic-speaking regions.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Rudy, Rudi, Dolf
Sibling names for Rudolf
Names that share Rudolf's style, for a brother or sister.
