The boy's name Ronald \r(o)-na-ld\ is pronounced RAH-nald. It is of Old Norse origin, and its meaning is "ruler's counselor". Also possibly from the same root as Reginald and Reynold. Ronald emerged among the Scots, and was not widely used in the rest of the English-speaking world until the end of the 19th century. Ranald is a Scottish form, Ronaldo is Spanish. American President Ronald Reagan; clown Ronald McDonald.

ORIGIN
Old English

MEANING
Ruler's counselor

The Scottish form of Rognvaldr. Primarily used in Scotland until the 19th century. The name received a surge of popularity during the 1940s influenced by English actor Ronald Colman. He started his career as a silent film star and won an Academy Award in 1948 after successfully making the transition to "talkies." Also associated with former President Ronald Reagan, who held office from 1981 to 1989. Ronaldo is the Spanish form.

VARIATIONS
Ronalda Rhona

NICKNAMES
Ron Ronnie

FAMOUS Ronalds
Ronald McDonald (clown/spokesman)

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