The name Rodolfo is of Italian origin and means "famous wolf". It is a variant of the Germanic name Hrothulf, which was borne by a character in the Old Norse saga Beowulf. The name Rodolfo has been popular throughout Europe for centuries and was particularly common among nobility during the Middle Ages.
In Italy, Rodolfo was often associated with the famous composer Giuseppe Verdi's opera La Traviata, where one of the characters is named Rodolfo. This association may have contributed to the name's popularity in that country.
Today, Rodolfo continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their sons. Its unique sound and powerful meaning make it an attractive option for those who want something different from traditional names like John or Robert. Despite its Italian origins, Rodolfo can be found among people of various ethnic backgrounds around the world.
The given statistics provide a fascinating glimpse into the popularity of the name Rodolfo in the United States over the past century and a half.
From 1902 to 1979, the number of babies named Rodolfo fluctuated considerably. The first peak occurred around 1925 with 173 births, followed by another peak in 1946 with 233 births. However, from 1979 onwards, there was a significant increase in popularity, reaching its zenith in 1980 with 563 births.
Interestingly, this upward trend continued until it reached an all-time high of 610 births in 1981. Unfortunately, the popularity of the name began to decline thereafter, reaching a low of 129 births in 2023.
Despite this recent decline, it's clear that the name Rodolfo has had its moments of popularity over time. Understanding these trends can be helpful for parents looking for unique names with some historical significance.