Harold Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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Harold
[ˈhærəld ]
Definition
person
A masculine given name derived from the Old English name Hereweald, meaning 'leader of the army.'
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| Harold |
Typically used as a male given name, often formal. Suitable in professional or respectful settings.
|
| harry |
A male given name, often informal or familiar. It can also mean to persistently bother or harass someone, usually with a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Harold was a popular name in England during the Middle Ages.
- Harold is often shortened to Harry as a nickname.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Usage
- Harold has been a name used by kings, knights, and noblemen throughout European history.
- The infamous Battle of Hastings in 1066 was between King Harold II and William the Conqueror, greatly impacting British history.
Pop Culture
- The character Harold in the TV show 'Hey Arnold!' is loved for his unique personality and humor.
- In popular media, the name often appears in books and movies as characters who are quirky or wise.
Psychology
- Names can influence how people perceive personality traits; Harold may evoke associations of reliability and leadership.
- Studies have shown that names can shape one's self-image and social interactions.
Literature
- Harold is a character in various literary works, representing varied themes from adventure to introspection.
- In literature, the name often ties to heroes or men who embark on journeys, reflecting traditional masculine attributes.
Origin of 'Harold'
Main points about word origin
- The name Harold has Old English roots, coming from the words 'here' (army) and 'weald' (to govern).
- It became popular in England due to historical figures like King Harold II who reigned in the 11th century.
The name Harold has Germanic origins and can be traced back to the Old English name Hereweald. It was introduced to England by the Normans and became a popular name during the Middle Ages. Famous bearers of the name include Harold Godwinson, the last Anglo-Saxon king of England, who died at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.