Rolfe

Patronymic

Meaning

A surname derived from the Old Norse personal name Hrólfr, meaning 'famous wolf'.

Etymology

The name evolved from the Scandinavian Hrólfr, brought to England by Viking settlers and Norman conquerors, with the initial 'H' eventually dropped. The surname became established as a patronymic in medieval England.

About the Rolfe Surname

A patronymic surname derived from the Scandinavian personal name Hrólfr. The name is particularly associated with early English colonial history, notably through John Rolfe of Virginia.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 12,000 bearers in the United States #1,040 most common surname
Rare Common

Primarily found in England, with some presence in Scandinavian countries.

Rolfe Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the Rolfe Surname