Origin and Meaning of Rafe

Counsel of the wolf

Origin: English - Rafe is derived from the Old French name 'Ralph', which comes from the Old Norse 'Raðulfr', where 'ráð' means 'counsel' and 'ulfr' means 'wolf'.

• Rafe has gained popularity as a given name in English-speaking countries, especially in recent years, associated with a more contemporary and stylish sound.
• The name Rafe is relatively rare compared to its derived form Ralph, which has historical roots going back to the medieval period in England.
• Notable bearers of the name include British actor Rafe Spall, known for his roles in films and television, bringing visibility to the name in modern culture.
• The name Rafe began to rise in popularity in the 21st century, especially in the UK and the US, often influenced by pop culture and celebrity usage.
• Variations of the name include Ralph, and related names in different cultures include Ralfo (Italian) and Raúl (Spanish).