Roland (name)

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

Roland is a masculine first name that is also used as a family name. In certain languages (Spanish, Italian), the equivalent name is Orlando.

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.[1] Variations include "Rollo" in British English (the name is a type of chocolate candy in American English and hence less used)[2] and "Rolle" in Scandinavian languages.[3]

The name was used by William Shakespeare as a character in As You Like It.[2] However, its use has declined since the 20th century.[1]

Variations

See also

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Dictionary of First Names. Wordsworth Editions. 1995. p. 198. ISBN 978-1-853-26366-8.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 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.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Rifkin, June (2011). The Everything Baby Names Book. Adams Media. p. 127. ISBN 978-1-440-52753-1.