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Ranald

Boy name · 47 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Ranald: 47 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 7 births in 1981.

Ranald is the Scottish Gaelic form of Ragnall, itself derived from the Old Norse Rǫgnvaldr, meaning “ruler’s judgment” or “counsel of the gods.” This name shares roots with the better-known Ronald, but Ranald retains a distinctively Highland flavour. One of the most famous bearers was Ranald Macdonald of Clanranald, a 14th-century clan chief whose descendants played a prominent role in Scottish history, particularly during the Jacobite risings. In literature, Ranald is the hero of Sir Walter Scott’s 1823 novel *Redgauntlet*. The name also has a strong place connection: the village of Ranald in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, shares the same etymology via settlement by Scots. While less common than Ronald today, Ranald saw a modest revival in 20th-century Scotland and remains a proud, historic choice with a sturdy, melodic cadence.