Arend is a boy's name of Dutch origin. It is derived from the Old German word "Ari", which means "eagle". The name has been used in various forms throughout history, but it was not particularly popular until the 20th century.
In the Middle Ages, there were several saints named Ari or Arent, who were venerated in the Netherlands and other parts of Europe. These saints may have contributed to the popularity of the name Arend in later centuries.
Today, Arend is a relatively uncommon name outside of the Netherlands, but it continues to be used within Dutch-speaking communities. It is often spelled with an "e" at the end, as opposed to the more common Dutch spelling without the final letter. This variant may have been introduced by English speakers who were unfamiliar with the usual Dutch spelling.
Overall, Arend is a unique and historic name that has been passed down through generations in the Netherlands. Its meaning of "eagle" gives it a powerful and majestic connotation, making it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive boy's name.
The name Arend experienced peaks of popularity between 1974 and 1978 with a high of 12 births in 1977.