Rafe
Boy name · 75 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Rafe: 75 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 12 births in 2025.
Rafe is a medieval English variant of Ralph, derived from the Old Norse name Ráðúlfr, composed of *ráð* ("counsel") and *úlfr* ("wolf"), hence "wolf counsel." It was popularised in Scotland through Norman influence and later fell out of common use, though it has seen a quiet revival. Notable bearers include English actor Rafe Spall—known for *The World's End* and *The Big Short*—and Rafe Fiennes, the 8th Baron Saye and Sele, though his cousin Ralph Fiennes is more famous. The name shares its root with several place names, such as Ralston in Renfrewshire, meaning "Ralph's town." Unlike its more formal cousin Ralph, Rafe offers a short, punchy alternative with literary heft, appearing in William Golding's *Lord of the Flies* as the sensible protagonist. S
Boy 13 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 202512 babies
- Latest (2025)
- #29812 babies
- Total births
- 75since 2006
- 5-year trend
- ▲ 95%vs prior 5y