Find out how popular the first name Herald has been for the last 40 years (from 1983 to 2022) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Herald by gender

Based on the last 40 years of data, Herald is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2022, there were 6 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Herald.

The history of the first name Herald

The name Herald has its origins in the Germanic languages, derived from the Old English words "here" meaning army, and "wald" meaning rule or leader. It was initially used as a title for an official who made public proclamations on behalf of a noble or sovereign, essentially serving as a messenger or announcer.

The earliest recorded use of the name Herald dates back to the Middle Ages, around the 12th century. During this period, Heralds played a crucial role in the feudal system, carrying messages, delivering challenges, and overseeing tournaments and ceremonies. They were tasked with preserving the rules of chivalry and maintaining the records of noble families' coats of arms and lineages.

In ancient times, the role of a Herald was often associated with the Greek god Hermes, who was the messenger of the gods and the patron of travelers and boundaries. This connection may have influenced the adoption of the name in certain regions influenced by Greek culture.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Herald was Herald of Landshut, a German nobleman who lived in the 12th century and served as a Knight and Herald for the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa. Another notable figure was Herald the Fortunate, a 13th-century Scottish knight who accompanied King Robert the Bruce during the Wars of Scottish Independence.

In the 15th century, a French Herald named Montjoye played a significant role in the Hundred Years' War, participating in negotiations between the English and French armies. Similarly, in the 16th century, a Scottish Herald named Lyon King of Arms was responsible for maintaining the records of Scottish nobility and overseeing the College of Arms in Edinburgh.

During the Renaissance period, the name Herald gained popularity among the upper classes, with several notable individuals bearing the name. One such example was Herald Laudonnière, a French explorer and colonist who established the first French settlement in Florida, Fort Caroline, in 1564.

As the role of Heralds evolved over time, the name became less common, but it has remained a part of various cultures' naming traditions, often carrying connotations of leadership, communication, and tradition.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Herald was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Herald, please contact us.

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