Roland (name)


Roland is a masculine Frankish given name that is also used as a family name. Forms in other languages include: Orlando, Rolando, Roldán.

Origin

The name Roland originates from Frankish. Its meaning has usually been identified as "famous land," "from the famous land," or "fame of the land", derived from the stems "Hrōð" or "χrōþi" meaning fame, and "land". Some claim that "land" was derived from "nand," meaning "brave.",
The name became widespread after the semi-legendary military hero Roland who served in the Frankish army under Charlemagne c. 778 C.E. and whose exploits were celebrated in the Chanson de Roland or Song of Roland.
Variations include "Rollo" in British English and "Rolle" in Scandinavian languages,.

Given name