Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Randolph

      Origin 
      English

      Meaning 
      Shield Wolf

      Variations 
      Adolphus, Bardolph, Rudolph

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Randolph traces its origins back to Old English, where rand means shield and wulf represents a wolf. Consequently, Randolph can be interpreted as Shield Wolf. This name reflects the prevalent historical context of early English society, which greatly valued bravery, loyalty, and strength in the face of adversity. The combination of shield symbolizing defense and wolf representing ferocity suggests a person who is both protective and formidable.

      Throughout history, the name Randolph has appeared in various forms and contexts. It gained prominence in the Middle Ages when individuals bearing this name rose to positions of power and influence. The feudal system, prevalent during this period, embraced the virtues associated with the name Randolph, elevating it to a symbol of nobility and strength.

      In modern-day usage, Randolph continues to convey a sense of strength and protection. It is not as common as some other names, which only enhances its distinctive appeal. Individuals named Randolph often exhibit qualities such as courage, loyalty, and resilience, aligning with the ancient meaning of their name. Although the name has evolved and adapted over time, it has retained the essence of its origins, providing a link to the rich history and noble heritage associated with the name Randolph.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Randolph.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Randolph.

      Mary

      is the most common spouse name for Randolph.

      Randolph

      is the most common child name for Randolph.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1910 is when there were the most people born with the first name Randolph.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.