Rosalind

girlGermanic

Rosalind is a girl name of Germanic, later read as Latin origin, meaning “Gentle horse; later 'pretty rose'”.

MeaningGentle horse; later 'pretty rose'
GenderGirl
OriginGermanic, later read as Latin
PronunciationROZ-uh-lind
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited Kingdom, United States

Meaning and origin of Rosalind

Rosalind most likely comes from the Germanic hros (horse) and lind (soft, gentle). In the Middle Ages people reinterpreted it through Spanish and Latin as rosa linda, 'pretty rose', and this is the meaning usually given today. Shakespeare made it famous with the witty heroine of As You Like It. The scientist Rosalind Franklin, whose work was key to discovering the structure of DNA, is a celebrated bearer.

Is Rosalind a religious name?

Rosalind is a literary and secular name without a particular religious background.

How popular is Rosalind?

An uncommon, classic choice in English-speaking countries.

Gifts with the name Rosalind

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Spellings and variants of Rosalind

RosalindaRosalineRosalyn

Names similar to Rosalind

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Rosalind mean?

Rosalind means 'Gentle horse; later 'pretty rose''. It is of Germanic, later read as Latin origin.

Does Rosalind have a religious meaning?

Rosalind is a literary and secular name without a particular religious background.

How do you pronounce Rosalind?

Rosalind is pronounced ROZ-uh-lind.

Is Rosalind a boy or girl name?

Rosalind is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.