Rodney

boyOld English

Rodney is an boy name of Old English origin, meaning “Island near clearings, or Hroda's island”.

MeaningIsland near clearings, or Hroda's island
GenderBoy
OriginOld English
PronunciationROD-nee
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited Kingdom, United States, Australia

Meaning and origin of Rodney

Rodney began as an English surname from Rodney Stoke in Somerset, a place name usually explained as 'Hroda's island' or a raised piece of land in marshes. It became a first name in the eighteenth century in honour of Admiral George Rodney, a famous British naval commander. The name was especially popular in the mid-twentieth century and is often shortened to Rod.

Is Rodney a religious name?

Rodney is a secular place-derived name with no religious background.

How popular is Rodney?

Mainly a name for men of older generations; rare for babies now.

Gifts with the name Rodney

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Spellings and variants of Rodney

RodnieRod

Names similar to Rodney

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Rodney mean?

Rodney means 'Island near clearings, or Hroda's island'. It is of Old English origin.

Does Rodney have a religious meaning?

Rodney is a secular place-derived name with no religious background.

How do you pronounce Rodney?

Rodney is pronounced ROD-nee.

Is Rodney a boy or girl name?

Rodney is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.