Rolando Boy
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: roh-LAN-doh /roʊˈlændoʊ/
Origin: Spanish; Italian
Meaning: Spanish: famous land; Italian: renowned
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Rolando has its roots in the Germanic name Hruodland, which is composed of the elements 'hruod,' meaning 'fame' or 'glory,' and 'land,' meaning 'land' or 'territory.' This name was Latinized as Rolandus in the medieval period, particularly through the influence of the Old French form Roland, which became prominent due to the epic poem "La Chanson de Roland" from the 11th century. This poem recounts the heroic deeds of Roland, a knight and military leader under Charlemagne, who is depicted as a paragon of chivalry and loyalty, thus solidifying the name's association with bravery and honor in European culture.
The name gained further prominence during the Carolingian Renaissance, a period marked by the revival of art, culture, and learning based on classical models. Roland's legendary status was cemented in various literary works and historical accounts throughout the Middle Ages, including the writings of chroniclers such as Einhard in the 9th century.
The name Rolando, as a variant, emerged in Italian and Spanish contexts, reflecting the cultural exchanges and adaptations of the name across different regions of Europe. Culturally, Rolando is often associated with themes of heroism and loyalty, resonating through various artistic and literary traditions.
The name has been borne by several notable figures throughout history, including saints and nobles, which has contributed to its enduring legacy. In addition, diminutive forms such as Rolly or Lando have appeared in various cultures, further enriching the name's historical tapestry.
Overall, the name Rolando encapsulates a rich blend of linguistic heritage and cultural significance, reflecting the valor and nobility attributed to its historical bearers.
Famous people named Rolando
Rolando Villazon is a tenor best known for his performances in La Traviata, Rigoletto, and Don Carlo.
Rolando Bianchi is a professional footballer best known for playing with clubs such as Reggina, Bologna, and Catania.
Rolando McClain is a former American football linebacker best known for his time with the Oakland Raiders and Dallas Cowboys.
Rolando Blackman is a former professional basketball player best known for his career with the Dallas Mavericks and the New York Knicks.
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Rolando was first seen in the United States in 1916.
Rolando has ranked as high as #797 nationally, which occurred in 1994, and has been most popular in Texas, California, New York, Florida, and Illinois.
In the past 5 years the name Rolando has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Rolando (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 62 | |
| CA | 27 | |
| NY | 7 | |
| FL | 6 | |
| OH | 5 | |
| GA | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1916 | 5 |
| 1918 | 7 |
| 1919 | 6 |
| 1920 | 5 |
| 1921 | 8 |
| 1922 | 10 |
| 1923 | 5 |
| 1924 | 10 |
| 1925 | 9 |
| 1926 | 12 |
| 1927 | 8 |
| 1928 | 11 |
| 1929 | 15 |
| 1930 | 10 |
| 1931 | 16 |
| 1932 | 25 |
| 1933 | 14 |
| 1934 | 21 |
| 1935 | 22 |
| 1936 | 17 |
| 1937 | 23 |
| 1938 | 32 |
| 1939 | 17 |
| 1940 | 30 |
| 1941 | 20 |
| 1942 | 40 |
| 1943 | 30 |
| 1944 | 29 |
| 1945 | 34 |
| 1946 | 58 |
| 1947 | 61 |
| 1948 | 56 |
| 1949 | 61 |
| 1950 | 74 |
| 1951 | 123 |
| 1952 | 139 |
| 1953 | 143 |
| 1954 | 154 |
| 1955 | 170 |
| 1956 | 186 |
| 1957 | 215 |
| 1958 | 190 |
| 1959 | 224 |
| 1960 | 273 |
| 1961 | 257 |
| 1962 | 266 |
| 1963 | 251 |
| 1964 | 253 |
| 1965 | 291 |
| 1966 | 262 |
| 1967 | 264 |
| 1968 | 281 |
| 1969 | 254 |
| 1970 | 323 |
| 1971 | 348 |
| 1972 | 320 |
| 1973 | 325 |
| 1974 | 360 |
| 1975 | 423 |
| 1976 | 342 |
| 1977 | 372 |
| 1978 | 395 |
| 1979 | 455 |
| 1980 | 459 |
| 1981 | 446 |
| 1982 | 385 |
| 1983 | 429 |
| 1984 | 441 |
| 1985 | 403 |
| 1986 | 422 |
| 1987 | 408 |
| 1988 | 431 |
| 1989 | 395 |
| 1990 | 386 |
| 1991 | 391 |
| 1992 | 403 |
| 1993 | 393 |
| 1994 | 473 |
| 1995 | 441 |
| 1996 | 384 |
| 1997 | 404 |
| 1998 | 435 |
| 1999 | 365 |
| 2000 | 430 |
| 2001 | 446 |
| 2002 | 417 |
| 2003 | 405 |
| 2004 | 453 |
| 2005 | 431 |
| 2006 | 438 |
| 2007 | 452 |
| 2008 | 415 |
| 2009 | 345 |
| 2010 | 319 |
| 2011 | 276 |
| 2012 | 236 |
| 2013 | 250 |
| 2014 | 238 |
| 2015 | 217 |
| 2016 | 224 |
| 2017 | 194 |
| 2018 | 178 |
| 2019 | 174 |
| 2020 | 157 |
| 2021 | 172 |
| 2022 | 163 |
| 2023 | 163 |
| 2024 | 155 |