Archibald

What does the baby name Archibald mean? Learn about what Archibald means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Archibald - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Archibald
A-R-C-H-I-B-A-L-D, is a 9-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Archibald
AHR-chə-bawld
Meaning of Archibald
Bold, truly bold, daring and precious, very bold, bold prince.
Origin of Archibald
'Archibald' is a name that originates from Scotland. Its earliest known use can be traced back to the 12th century, during the reign of King David I of Scotland. The name 'Archibald' is derived from the Old High German name 'Ercanbald', which means 'genuine and bold'. Over time, this Germanic name evolved into the Scottish form we know today as 'Archibald'.
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Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Archibald
Arch
Archaimbaud
Archambault
Arche
Archer
Archibaldo
Archibales
Archie
Archimbald
Popularity of Archibald
The popularity of the name 'Archibald' has fluctuated over the years. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, 'Archibald' experienced a notable spike in usage, particularly in Scotland and among Scottish immigrants in other parts of the world. During this time, the name was often associated with strength, nobility, and a sense of tradition. However, in recent decades, the popularity of 'Archibald' has declined, and it is now considered a less common name.
Archibald currently has 24 likes, and is in the top 7% of liked boy's names. The name Vidal is slightly more popular than Archibald.

Etymology of Archibald

To understand the etymology of 'Archibald', we must explore its linguistic roots. The name is a combination of two elements 'ercan' meaning 'genuine' and 'bald' meaning 'bold'. This combination perfectly encapsulates the qualities that 'Archibald' represents – authenticity and courage. It is fascinating to see how the meaning of a name can reflect the character traits that parents hope their child will possess.

Cultural Significance of Archibald

The name 'Archibald' holds cultural significance, particularly in Scottish culture. It is often associated with Scottish nobility and the country's rich history. 'Archibald' has been borne by several notable figures throughout the centuries, including 'Archibald' Campbell, the 9th Earl of Argyll, who played a significant role in the Scottish Wars of Independence. The name also appears in Scottish literature, such as Sir Walter Scott's novel 'Archibald' Malmaison.'