Arild as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Arild

What is the meaning of the name Arild ?

The baby name Arild is a Male name , 2 syllables long and is pronounced /ˈɑːrɪld/ (AH-rild).

Arild is Scandinavian in Origin.

Arild is a Scandinavian masculine name used mainly in Norway and Denmark. Its etymology is debated: many linguists connect it to an old Germanic compound with arn “eagle” and hildr “battle,” yielding the sense “eagle in battle” or “battle-strong like an eagle.” Others see it as a medieval Danish variant of Harald (from Proto‑Germanic elements meaning “army” and “ruler”), which would link Arild to the broader Harald/Haraldus tradition. Both pathways place the name firmly within the early Germanic naming stock.

Documented bearers appear in Denmark by the 16th century (e.g., historian Arild Huitfeldt), and the name later gained steady popularity in Norway, peaking in the mid‑20th century; contemporary figures include jazz bassist Arild Andersen. Variants and related forms include Harild (Danish), Harald, and cognates from the arn‑ stem such as Arvid/Arved/Arnvid. The name carries a traditional, sober Nordic character while remaining distinctly concise.