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
      Raoul

      Origin 
      Spanish, French, And Portuguese Origins

      Meaning 
      Wolf Counsel or Brave Wolf

      Variations 
      Raoula, Raoule, Jean-raoul

      *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 Raoul has its origins in Spanish, French, and Portuguese cultures, deriving from the Germanic elements rad, meaning counsel, and wald, meaning wolf. Hence, the name translates to wolf counsel or brave wolf. This etymology reflects the qualities traditionally associated with wolves—courage, loyalty, and strength—making Raoul a name that conveys both power and wisdom.

      Historically, Raoul has been prominent in European nobility and literature. The name can be traced back to the medieval period, where it was commonly used among French aristocracy. It is associated with various historical figures, including Raoul I of Vermandois, a prominent noble in the 10th century. The name gained further prominence through literature, particularly in works that featured chivalrous knights and noble characters, establishing it as a symbol of valor and integrity.

      In contemporary times, Raoul remains a recognizable and respected name across various cultures, particularly in France, Spain, and Portuguese-speaking countries. It has been adopted by numerous individuals in various fields, including the arts, politics, and sports. Despite its historical roots, Raoul maintains a modern appeal, often associated with creativity and leadership, making it a favored choice for parents seeking a name that conveys both heritage and strength.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Raoul.
      Tremblay

      is the most common surname for Raoul.

      Marie

      is the most common spouse name for Raoul.

      Raoul

      is the most common child name for Raoul.

      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?
      1900 is when there were the most people born with the first name Raoul.

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

      Explore the origins of another name.