Reginald Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationREJ-uh-nuhld / /ˈrɛdʒ.ɪ.nəld/Latin; Old German
Meaning
Latin: 'counsel power'; Old German: 'ruler's advisor'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Reginald has its roots in the Old High German name "Reginhwald," which is composed of the elements "regin," meaning "counsel" or "advice," and "wald," meaning "rule" or "power." This name evolved into the Latin form "Reginaldus" during the early medieval period, which was then adopted into Old French as "Reginald." The transition into English occurred after the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, when many Norman names were introduced into the English lexicon, leading to the widespread use of Reginald in England by the 12th century.
Historically, the name Reginald has been borne by several notable figures, including Saint Reginald, a 9th-century bishop of the Diocese of Soissons, who was venerated in both France and England. The name also appears in various historical texts and documents throughout the Middle Ages, often associated with nobility and clergy. One significant milestone is its appearance in the 14th century, when it was used by several English nobles, further solidifying its status in the aristocracy. The name was also included in the King James Bible, which was published in 1611, although it does not appear in the original biblical texts.
Culturally, Reginald has been associated with leadership and wisdom due to its etymological roots. The name has often been linked to figures of authority and governance, reflecting the qualities of counsel and power. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Reggie" have emerged, although they are more modern adaptations. The endurance of the name Reginald throughout centuries can be attributed to its strong historical associations and the qualities it embodies, making it a name of significance in various cultural contexts.
Trend Summary
Reginald has seen fluctuating popularity in the U.S., with a notable decline in usage since the mid-20th century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Reggie
- Reg
- Regis
International Variants
- Reginaldo (Spanish)
- Rinaldo (Italian)
- Régnier (French)
Famous people named Reginald
Reginald D. Hunter is a comedian best known for his stand-up specials and appearances on BBC's Have I Got News for You.
Reginald VelJohnson is an actor best known for his roles in Family Matters and Die Hard.
Reginald Arvizu is a musician best known as the bassist for the band Korn.
Fictional characters named Reginald
Reginald is a fictional character from the video game series Fire Emblem. He is a nobleman who plays a significant role in the political intrigue of the story.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Reginald was first seen in the United States in 1880. Reginald has ranked as high as #282 nationally, which occurred in 1962, and has been most popular in New York, North Carolina, Georgia, California, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Reginald has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Reginald (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 16 | |
TX | 13 | |
FL | 10 | |
TN | 10 | |
AL | 10 | |
GA | 8 | |
MI | 8 | |
NY | 6 | |
IN | 6 | |
NC | 6 | |
IL | 5 | |
VA | 5 | |
MN | 5 | |
MO | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 14 |
1881 | 12 |
1882 | 7 |
1883 | 12 |
1884 | 16 |
1885 | 16 |
1886 | 15 |
1887 | 11 |
1888 | 14 |
1889 | 14 |
1890 | 19 |
1891 | 22 |
1892 | 24 |
1893 | 23 |
1894 | 22 |
1895 | 26 |
1896 | 30 |
1897 | 18 |
1898 | 22 |
1899 | 25 |
1900 | 27 |
1901 | 31 |
1902 | 43 |
1903 | 48 |
1904 | 40 |
1905 | 53 |
1906 | 47 |
1907 | 47 |
1908 | 47 |
1909 | 56 |
1910 | 59 |
1911 | 86 |
1912 | 134 |
1913 | 180 |
1914 | 200 |
1915 | 244 |
1916 | 243 |
1917 | 261 |
1918 | 278 |
1919 | 244 |
1920 | 274 |
1921 | 271 |
1922 | 283 |
1923 | 335 |
1924 | 348 |
1925 | 429 |
1926 | 475 |
1927 | 446 |
1928 | 401 |
1929 | 437 |
1930 | 424 |
1931 | 423 |
1932 | 375 |
1933 | 341 |
1934 | 375 |
1935 | 350 |
1936 | 375 |
1937 | 389 |
1938 | 409 |
1939 | 403 |
1940 | 514 |
1941 | 530 |
1942 | 632 |
1943 | 613 |
1944 | 567 |
1945 | 587 |
1946 | 719 |
1947 | 896 |
1948 | 941 |
1949 | 1,092 |
1950 | 1,297 |
1951 | 1,466 |
1952 | 1,494 |
1953 | 1,640 |
1954 | 1,812 |
1955 | 2,075 |
1956 | 2,223 |
1957 | 2,418 |
1958 | 2,492 |
1959 | 2,421 |
1960 | 2,442 |
1961 | 2,469 |
1962 | 2,646 |
1963 | 2,571 |
1964 | 2,619 |
1965 | 2,469 |
1966 | 2,330 |
1967 | 2,402 |
1968 | 2,552 |
1969 | 2,422 |
1970 | 2,307 |
1971 | 2,115 |
1972 | 1,912 |
1973 | 1,630 |
1974 | 1,610 |
1975 | 1,499 |
1976 | 1,427 |
1977 | 1,521 |
1978 | 1,515 |
1979 | 1,655 |
1980 | 1,480 |
1981 | 1,409 |
1982 | 1,378 |
1983 | 1,268 |
1984 | 1,336 |
1985 | 1,312 |
1986 | 1,350 |
1987 | 1,336 |
1988 | 1,333 |
1989 | 1,298 |
1990 | 1,284 |
1991 | 1,276 |
1992 | 1,230 |
1993 | 1,143 |
1994 | 929 |
1995 | 863 |
1996 | 818 |
1997 | 763 |
1998 | 736 |
1999 | 682 |
2000 | 700 |
2001 | 567 |
2002 | 583 |
2003 | 531 |
2004 | 502 |
2005 | 494 |
2006 | 500 |
2007 | 493 |
2008 | 472 |
2009 | 429 |
2010 | 403 |
2011 | 359 |
2012 | 360 |
2013 | 351 |
2014 | 285 |
2015 | 253 |
2016 | 278 |
2017 | 263 |
2018 | 267 |
2019 | 249 |
2020 | 216 |
2021 | 211 |
2022 | 207 |
2023 | 192 |
2024 | 176 |