Arnold is a masculine given name of Germanic origin, derived from the Old German elements "arn" meaning "eagle" and "wulf" meaning "wolf". The name Arnold was popular during the Middle Ages in Germany and France, where it was borne by several saints and historical figures.
The name Arnold gained significant prominence through several notable individuals throughout history. One of the most famous bearers of this name is Arnold of Brescia, an Italian priest and reformer who lived in the 12th century. He was known for his opposition to the corrupt practices of the Catholic Church and played a significant role in the Ghibelline movement. Another notable figure is Arnold of Ventadorn, a French troubadour who flourished during the late 12th century. His poetry, written primarily in Occitan, is considered among the most influential works of the Troubadour school.
In more recent times, the name Arnold has been popularized by individuals such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, the former Governor of California and renowned film actor, and Arnold Palmer, the legendary American golfer. While these figures have contributed to the modern perception of the name Arnold, it is essential to recognize that this name has a rich history stretching back centuries.
Today, Arnold remains a popular choice for parents seeking a strong and distinguished name for their sons. Its Germanic origins and historical significance continue to make it an appealing option for many families. The name Arnold carries with it a sense of tradition and strength, reflecting its enduring appeal across generations.
The name Arnold experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a notable spike during World War I. From 1880 to 1947, there were substantial increases in births named Arnold, peaking at 1998 births in 1927. However, since then, the popularity of the name has steadily declined, reaching as low as 81 births in 2014. The total number of births with the name Arnold from 1880 to 2023 is 103,620.