Roland (name)

The Frankish military leader Roland was a key figure in the Matter of France

Roland is a masculine Germanic first name that is also used as a family name. Forms in other languages include: Orlando (Italian),[1][2] Rolando (Italian, Portuguese, Spanish),[3] Roldán (Spanish).[4]

Origin

The name Roland originates from German and means "famous land". It became widespread after the military hero Roland who served in the Frankish army.[5] Variations include "Rollo" in British English (the name is a type of chocolate candy in American English and hence less used)[6] and "Rolle" in Scandinavian languages.[7]

The name was used by William Shakespeare as a character in As You Like It.[6] However, its use has declined since the 20th century.[5]

Variations

See also

References

  1. ↑ http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=Orlando
  2. ↑ http://www.behindthename.com/name/orlando
  3. ↑ http://www.behindthename.com/name/rolando
  4. ↑ http://www.behindthename.com/name/rolda10n
  5. 1 2 Dictionary of First Names. Wordsworth Editions. 1995. p. 198. ISBN 978-1-853-26366-8.
  6. 1 2 Shaw, Lisa; Norville, Andrea (2005). Baby Names Your Child Can Live With: Thousands Of Names To Help You Make The Perfect Choice. Adams Media. p. 144. ISBN 978-1-440-51870-6.
  7. 1 2 Rifkin, June (2011). The Everything Baby Names Book. Adams Media. p. 127. ISBN 978-1-440-52753-1.
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