Origin
Derived from Old English origins, 'Arlo' is thought to combine elements meaning 'barberry' (a type of shrub) and 'hill' or 'fortress'. While it has been used historically as a masculine name, particularly in English contexts, its adoption as a female name has gained popularity in Australia more recently. The name appears in literature and film, contributing to its modern usage.
Meaning
'Arlo' can be interpreted as 'fortified hill' or 'hill of the barberry', symbolising strength and natural beauty. In Australian contexts, it evokes a connection to the land and resilience, fitting with the country's appreciation of nature and heritage.
Pronunciation
/ˈɑːlroʊ/ (Australian English pronunciation, stress on the first syllable) - sounds like 'AR-loh' with a soft 'r'.'cally based, with a clear and melodic pronunciation.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Arlanda
- Arlina
- Arlette
Nicknames
- Arli
- Lola
Name Days
- 28 April (Customary in some Christian calendars for Saint Arlo, though not widely observed)
- 26 September (Māori language day, acknowledging traditional land names and stories, occasionally including culturally significant names like Arlo if adapted)
- Celebration of Indigenous Land and Culture (16 July, acknowledging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' connection to the land)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with arlo:
- Olivia and Ella
- Amelia and Charlotte
- Lily and Mia (as stylish feminine options in Australia)
Fun Facts
- The name gained brief popularity in Australia after Australian actor Heath Ledger's daughter was named Matilda Rose Ledger, inspiring more diverse names like Arlo for girls.
- Though originally masculine, Arlo is increasingly used for girls in Australia, reflecting the trend of gender-neutral names.
- In Australian pop culture, the name Arlo appears in music and literature, often symbolising freedom and natural beauty.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name arlo:
- creative
- independent
- friendly
- resilient
Aesthetic Qualities
Simple yet distinctive, with a gentle, melodic sound. Its visual appeal is enhanced by its smooth, balanced letterforms and modern feel in Australian typography.
Geographical Distribution
Most popular in urban areas such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, where trendy, gender-neutral, and nature-inspired names are favored amongst new parents.
Numerological Significance
Name number 1, associated with leadership, independence, and pioneering spirit, fitting with Australian values of resilience and adventure.','astrological':
Astrological Connections
Connected with Leo and Sagittarius zodiac signs, indicating creativity, enthusiasm, and a love for adventure, aligning with Australia's vibrant and adventurous culture.
Historical Context
While historically a masculine name, Arlo was the name of some characters in Australian literature, and its modern usage for girls has been popularised through media and celebrity influences. Notably, Australian actress Ruby Rose has a similar modern, unconventional appeal that aligns with the name's image.
Linguistic Adaptability
Easily adaptable across English-speaking countries; may be pronounced slightly differently in UK, US, and Australia, but remains recognisably similar.
Famous People Named arlo
- Arlo Guthrie (American folk singer)
- Ruby Rose (Australian actress, though not named Arlo, reflects a similar modern, unconventional name trend)
- Arlo (film, 2017, indicating cultural adoption of the name in media)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 2 |
2017 | 2 |
2016 | 2 |
2015 | 1 |
2013 | 13 |