Raoul

boyGermanicChristian

Raoul is a boy name of Germanic, via French origin, meaning “Wolf counsel”.

MeaningWolf counsel
GenderBoy
OriginGermanic, via French
Pronunciationrah-OOL
TraditionModern & Classic, Christian
Used inFrance, Belgium, Italy

Meaning and origin of Raoul

Raoul is a French form of the Germanic Radulf, made from rad 'counsel, advice' and wulf 'wolf'. The same ancestor gave English the name Ralph. It was carried by Norman and French nobles in the Middle Ages and has a slightly romantic, old-world feel today. One celebrated bearer is Raoul Wallenberg, the Swedish diplomat who saved many Hungarian Jews during the Second World War.

Is Raoul a religious name?

Raoul is a Germanic name with no biblical background. It has been used in Christian Europe for many centuries but is chosen mainly for cultural reasons.

How popular is Raoul?

Familiar in France but uncommon for babies today; the Spanish form Raúl is more widely used.

Gifts with the name Raoul

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Spellings and variants of Raoul

RaulRalphRudolfRadulfRolf

Names similar to Raoul

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Raoul mean?

Raoul means 'Wolf counsel'. It is of Germanic, via French origin.

Does Raoul have a religious meaning?

Raoul is a Germanic name with no biblical background. It has been used in Christian Europe for many centuries but is chosen mainly for cultural reasons.

How do you pronounce Raoul?

Raoul is pronounced rah-OOL.

Is Raoul a boy or girl name?

Raoul is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.