Ronald
Boy name · 1,177 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Ronald: 1,177 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 111 births in 1974.
Ronald is a classic Scottish name, derived from the Old Norse *Rǫgnvaldr*, meaning “ruler’s counselor” or “wise ruler,” and brought to Scotland by Viking settlers. Among its most famous bearers are Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States, and actor Ronald Colman, whose golden voice defined Hollywood’s golden age. The name gained global recognition through the cheerful fast-food mascot Ronald McDonald, while closer to home, it shares roots with the Scottish surname MacRae. A traditional pet form is Ronnie, and the variant Ranald remains popular in the Highlands. Despite a dip in everyday use, Ronald retains a dignified, approachable feel—a strong yet friendly choice with deep Norse-Scottish heritage.
Boy 47 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 1974111 babies
- Latest (2024)
- #6194 babies
- Total births
- 1,177since 1974
- 5-year trend
- ≈ stablevs prior 5y