Find out how popular the first name Renard has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Renard by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Renard is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Renard.

The history of the first name Renard

The name Renard finds its origins in the French language, derived from the Old French word "renart," which referred to a fox. This connection to the cunning and clever animal likely influenced the name's initial usage and meaning. The name's earliest recorded instances can be traced back to the Middle Ages, around the 12th and 13th centuries.

One of the earliest and most notable references to the name Renard comes from the medieval satirical beast fable, "Roman de Renart," which featured a anthropomorphized fox named Renart as the central character. This literary work, authored by various poets between the 12th and 14th centuries, played a significant role in popularizing the name across Europe during that period.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Renard. One of the earliest recorded was Renard of Montauban, a French nobleman and military commander who lived in the 12th century and played a prominent role in the civil wars during the reign of King Louis VII.

In the 15th century, Renard de Saint-Trond, a Flemish painter and manuscript illuminator, gained recognition for his contributions to the Northern Renaissance art movement. His intricate and detailed works adorned various religious texts and manuscripts of the time.

During the 16th century, Renard Gourdon, a French Huguenot pastor and theologian, made a significant impact on the Protestant Reformation movement in France. His writings and sermons influenced the spread of Calvinism in the region.

In the 19th century, Renard Bergeron, a French explorer and naturalist, embarked on several expeditions to South America, documenting the region's flora and fauna. His detailed accounts and collections contributed greatly to the understanding of the continent's biodiversity.

Another notable figure was Renard de Briey, a French sculptor and architect who lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was renowned for his intricate architectural designs and sculptures that adorned various buildings and public spaces throughout France.

These are just a few examples of historical figures who bore the name Renard, showcasing its enduring presence across different eras and disciplines. The name's connection to the cunning fox and its literary roots have undoubtedly contributed to its cultural significance and longevity.

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 Renard was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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