Wolf Name: Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
The name 'Wolf' has its roots in Old High German, meaning 'wolf', and has evolved through various Germanic languages over centuries. It embodies traits of strength and loyalty, although it does not have a biblical connection. The name experienced a rise in popularity during the medieval period and continues to be favored in modern times, often associated with positive attributes.
Etymology & Cultural Background of "Wolf"
Pronunciation
/wʊlf/
Origin
Old High German
Etymology
The name 'Wolf' originates from the Old High German word 'wulf', which means 'wolf'. The term is derived from Proto-Germanic '*wulfaz' and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages.
Meaning
wolf
Language Evolution
Proto-Indo-European '*wĺ̥kʲos', Proto-Germanic '*wulfaz', Old High German 'wulf', Middle High German 'wolf', Modern German 'Wolf'
Historical Usage
The name gained popularity in medieval Europe as a given name and surname, often associated with strength and bravery due to the wolf's characteristics. It has been used throughout history in various cultures, often symbolizing ferocity and loyalty.
Variants & Derivatives
Wolfgang, Wolfram, Wolfe, Wolfric
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, the name 'Wolf' is perceived as strong and masculine, often associated with nature and wilderness. It has also gained popularity in popular culture, often used in literature and media.
Famous People
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Wolfgang Pauli, Wolf Blitzer
📊 Wolf Name Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Wolf Name Visualizations
✨ Wolf Name Meaning & Significance
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 107 peak births in 2021
Geographic Spread
Popular across 8 US states, with strongest presence in New York
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 6 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Same Pronunciation Names for "Wolf" - Complete Guide (3 Names)
Discover the ultimate list of homophone names and same pronunciation names that sound identical to "Wolf". These names share the same pronunciation but may have different spellings, offering alternative options for parents seeking similar-sounding names. Whether you're looking for American or British pronunciation variations, this comprehensive guide includes 3 carefully curated names that maintain the same phonetic sound.
Why explore same pronunciation names? Many parents search for homophone names to find alternative spellings that might be more unique or culturally significant. This ultimate list covers both American and British pronunciation patterns, ensuring you find the perfect variation of "Wolf" that fits your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics for the Name "Wolf"
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History of "Wolf"
"Wolf" Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Boy | 7545th of 7545 | 5 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Boy | 3648th of 7552 | 91 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 4771st of 10718 | 74 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 5509th of 16616 | 123 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 4202nd of 24088 | 335 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 1930th of 23106 | 946 |
Regional Popularity of "Wolf" by Generation for Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- |
42.72% 1038th/2430 |
- | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- |
43.32% 1509th/3483 |
- | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- |
38.39% 1718th/4475 |
- | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- |
30.23% 1561st/5164 |
- |
49.12% 3666th/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- |
26.99% 1211th/4487 |
37.32% 2546th/6822 |
22.99% 1443rd/6276 |
Regional Popularity of "Wolf" by Generation for Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
State-by-State Popularity of "Wolf"
This map shows the relative popularity of "Wolf" across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends of "Wolf" in the United States
The name Wolf is most popular in New York, USA across all generations. It ranks highest as a Boy name among the Generation Alpha generation in the Northeast region. Recent 3-year trends show this Boy name is gaining popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, Wolf has been too falling for male in Northeast, too falling for male in South, stalled for male in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for male in Northeast, stalled for male in South, stalled for male in West. Across generations, 'Wolf' has shown interesting popularity patterns: Among the G.I. Generation (1901-1927), it ranked 7545th out of 7545 names. Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 3648th out of 7552 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 4771st out of 10718 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 5509th out of 16616 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 4202nd out of 24088 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 1930th out of 23106 names. Discover how the name 'Wolf' has evolved through American history with our comprehensive regional and generational analysis.