Arnaud is a French given name of Germanic origin. It comes from the Old Germanic personal name Arnulf, which is composed of two elements: arn meaning "eagle" and wulf meaning "wolf". Therefore, Arnaud means "powerful as an eagle and brave like a wolf".
The name has been popular in France for centuries, with several notable historical figures bearing it. For instance, Arnaud de Vibraye was a French knight who participated in the Fourth Crusade in the 13th century. Another famous Arnaud is Saint Arnaud (died 1651), a French missionary and martyr who worked among the Huron people in Canada.
In France, Arnaud is typically used as a boy's name, but it can also be used for girls. It has been consistently popular throughout the years, although its usage has varied slightly over time. Today, it remains a beloved choice for parents seeking a traditional yet distinctive French name for their child.
Overall, the name Arnaud carries a strong and noble connotation due to its Germanic origins and historical significance. It is a great option for parents looking for a classic French name with a powerful meaning.
The name Arnaud was quite popular from 1981 to 2001, with five babies named Arnaud born each decade.