Meaning and origin
The last name Reynolds is of English origin and is derived from the medieval given name 'Reginald', which itself originated from the Old Germanic personal name 'Raginwald'. The name 'Reginald' evolved over time to 'Reynold' and eventually became a hereditary surname. This surname was commonly found in various regions of England, particularly in the counties of Devon, Somerset, and Norfolk. Today, the surname Reynolds is still prevalent worldwide, particularly in English-speaking countries.
The longer story
The English surname Reynolds is derived from the personal name Reynold, which comes from the Germanic elements "ragin" meaning "counsel" and "wald" meaning "rule."
The meaning of the surname Reynolds suggests characteristics such as wise counsel and leadership. The combination of "ragin" and "wald" signifies an individual with the ability to offer wise advice and rule with authority. This interpretation aligns with historical evidence of Reynold family members holding positions of power and influence.
As with many surnames, the meaning and significance of Reynolds can vary depending on the specific family branch and the historical context in which it originated.
Surname origins are rarely settled: one spelling can have several sources, and families often took a name for reasons nobody wrote down. Check it against the sources below before you rely on it.
#121
Reynolds was the 121st most common surname in the 2010 US Census, with 200,247 people, about 68 in every 100,000.
Who carries it
Surnames like Reynolds
Names it is linked with, then names with the same origin and a similar standing.
Check the sources
- Forebears: where Reynolds is found around the world
- The Internet Surname Database: a second opinion on the origin
- US Census Bureau: the 2010 surname figures used here
For a name you are serious about, compare the dictionaries: Reaney and Wilson, A Dictionary of English Surnames; Hanks, Dictionary of American Family Names.