Rolf

♂ Boy

Pronounced ROLF /ˈrɒlf/High

Meaning: A contraction of the Norse/Germanic Hrolf (Hrodwulf), hrod ('fame') + wulf ('wolf') - 'famous wolf.' A short, sturdy Viking-age name.Medium

In 30 seconds: A sturdy Norse name: Rolf means 'famous wolf' (said 'ROLF'). Short, strong, and Viking-age.

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Origin MediumNorse, Germanic

MeaningA contraction of the Norse/Germanic Hrolf (Hrodwulf), hrod ('fame') + wulf ('wolf') - 'famous wolf.' A short, sturdy Viking-age name.

U.S. rank (2025)#13496 ↘ Falling

2025 U.S. births5 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year1960

Total births (all-time)≈ 3,102

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.

History & Origin

Rolf is a contraction of the Norse Hrolf/Hrodwulf, hrod ('fame') + wulf ('wolf'), 'famous wolf.' A strong Viking-age name, rare in the U.S. today (said 'ROLF').

In the U.S. it appears rarely, more familiar in the Nordics and Germany. Rare, sturdy, and Norse.

Did you know? Rolf contracts the Norse Hrolf - 'fame' plus 'wolf,' 'famous wolf' - a short, sturdy Viking-age name borne by the founder of Normandy (said 'ROLF').

Overall data confidence 55%

References - Rolf — Norse Hrolf; 'famous wolf'

Variations

RolphRolfeRollo

Nicknames

RolfieRo

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Rolf…

Rollo— a Latinized Hrolf cousin

Rudolf— a like 'famous wolf' name

Gunnar— a like Norse warrior name

Ralph— lands in the same popularity range

Roel— a similarly popular pick

Explore names like Rolf

By themegermanic strong norse wolf

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Rolf mean?

Rolf is Norse/Germanic, from Hrolf - 'fame' plus 'wolf' - 'famous wolf.'

How do you pronounce Rolf?

It's said ROLF /ˈrɒlf/ - one syllable.

Is Rolf a boy or girl name?

Rolf is used as a boy's name.

How popular is Rolf?

Rolf is a rare name in the U.S.