What does Raul mean and where does it come from?
Raul is a traditional masculine name that has gained popularity globally, especially in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries. It originated from the Old French name Roul, which itself is derived from the Germanic elements meaning 'wolf' and 'counsel'. The name has been borne by notable figures
Cultural significance
Raul has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of spanish.
Peak popularity
Reached #612 in 2024 — currently #634 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Raul?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Raul?
Raul works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Raul Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Raul John
One syllable · timeless choice
Raul Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Raul Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Raul Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Raul Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Raul right now?
Declining — down 22 spots — currently #634 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #634 | 440 | ▼ down 22 · -6% births |
| 2024 | #612 | 466 | ▼ down 16 · -2% births |
| 2023 | #596 | 475 | ▼ down 43 · -12% births |
| 2022 | #553 | 539 | ▲ up 58 · +18% births |
| 2021 | #611 | 455 | ▲ up 11280 · +5588% births |
| 2005 | #11891 | 8 | ▼ down 3055 · -11% births |
| 1995 | #8836 | 9 | ▼ down 2663 · -36% births |
| 1990 | #6173 | 14 | ▼ down 89 · +27% births |
| 1985 | #6084 | 11 | ▼ down 493 · -8% births |
| 1980 | #5591 | 12 | ▼ down 369 · +9% births |
| 1975 | #5222 | 11 | ▼ down 678 · -8% births |
| 1970 | #4544 | 12 | ▼ down 270 · +20% births |
| 1965 | #4274 | 10 | ▲ up 2251 · +100% births |
| 1960 | #6525 | 5 | ▼ down 3072 · -58% births |
| 1955 | #3453 | 12 | — |
The story of Raul
Raul entered American naming records in 1929 and has been in use for over 95 years. A total of 86,098 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4734 in 1930 to #596 in 2023. Raul is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Raul in 2024:
Raul by decade
Raul peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 35 | |
| 1910s | 640 | |
| 1920s | 2,854 | |
| 1930s | 3,275 | |
| 1940s | 4,526 | |
| 1950s | 7,800 | |
| 1960s | 8,570 | |
| 1970s | 10,632 | |
| 1980s | 12,232 | |
| 1990s ★ | 14,674 | |
| 2000s | 13,437 | |
| 2010s | 6,923 | |
| 2020s | 1,406 | |
What are good nicknames for Raul?
What names sound and feel like Raul?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Raul also consider these
How is Raul written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Raul
What does the name Raul mean?
Raul means "Spanish" — a name rooted in Spain tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Raul?
Raul is currently ranked #596 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Raul?
Raul originates from Spain tradition. Spain names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Raul?
Raul is a one-syllable name pronounced rah-OOL. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Raul sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Raul flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Raul ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.