Harald

Meaning of Harald

Harald is a masculine name of Germanic origin, rooted in the Old Norse elements harja (“army”) and walda (“rule”), together conveying the meaning “army ruler.” It carries the weight of Scandinavian history through figures such as King Harald Bluetooth and Harald Fairhair, whose reigns are linked to political unification and seafaring ventures. In German it appears as HAH-rahlt (/ˈhaʁalt/) and in English as HAH-rald (/ˈhɑrəld/). Although Harald has never ranked among the most common choices in the United States, it has maintained a modest, steady presence—most recently placing around 911th in 2024 with 13 recorded births. This measured popularity underscores its appeal for parents seeking a name with deep historical resonance and a quietly distinctive character.