Meaning
Fortified hill, barberry hill
Origin
Old English, Germanic
Gender
Boy / Male
Pronunciation
AR-lo
Name story
What Arlo communicates
Arlo is a boy name of Old English, Germanic origin meaning "Fortified hill, barberry hill". That gives it a clear, rooted emotional tone that is easy to connect with and quick to remember.
It is pronounced AR-lo and sits at a popularity score of 49/100 in our index, which suggests how widely it is chosen today. Names in this range tend to appeal to parents who want something recognizable yet still distinctive.
If Arlo feels close but not quite right, the related names and theme links below lead to options that share its Old English, Germanic heritage or its core idea of "Fortified hill, barberry hill". Comparing a few side by side is the easiest way to settle on the name that fits your family best.
Famous People Named Arlo
- AArlo Guthrie
- AArlo (The Good Dinosaur)
Names with Similar Meanings
Names that share similar themes and meanings with Arlo
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Arlo mean?
The name Arlo means "Fortified hill, barberry hill". It is a name of Old English, Germanic origin that has been carried across many cultures and generations. The meaning reflects qualities valued in Old English, Germanic naming tradition, which is part of why parents who want a name with a clear, positive sense often choose Arlo.
What is the origin of the name Arlo?
Arlo originates from Old English, Germanic. Names of Old English, Germanic origin tend to carry deep historical and cultural significance, shaped by language, religion, and tradition over centuries. Arlo fits that pattern: its roots give it the meaning "Fortified hill, barberry hill" and connect it to a long lineage of related names that share the same heritage.
Is Arlo a popular name?
Arlo appears on baby-name popularity charts across many English-speaking countries. Its usage has shifted across generations, rising and falling with cultural moments, famous bearers, and naming trends. You can see where Arlo sits relative to other names on its popularity score above, and compare it with similar names in the same style.
What names are similar to Arlo?
Names similar to Arlo include those with shared origins, related meanings, or a similar sound and rhythm. The related names and similar-meaning sections above list strong alternatives, so if you love Arlo but want options, you can explore names that carry the same Old English, Germanic heritage or the same idea of "Fortified hill, barberry hill".
How do you pronounce Arlo?
Arlo is pronounced "AR-lo". Pronunciation can vary slightly by region and language, but this guide reflects the most common way the name Arlo is said.
Is Arlo a boy or a girl name?
Arlo is most commonly used as a boy name. Like many names it can cross gender lines depending on culture, era, and family preference, but its Old English, Germanic roots and traditional usage are reflected on this page. If you want a clearly gender-neutral option, browse our unisex names for alternatives.
What does the name Arlo symbolize?
The name Arlo symbolizes "Fortified hill, barberry hill". That theme gives Arlo a distinct emotional tone that many parents connect with, and it links the name to a wider family of names built on the same idea. Exploring names that share the meaning "Fortified hill, barberry hill" is a good way to find alternatives with a similar feeling.
Is Arlo a good baby name?
Arlo is a meaningful choice: it carries the meaning "Fortified hill, barberry hill", has clear Old English, Germanic heritage, and a recognizable pronunciation. Whether it is the right baby name depends on your taste, family traditions, and how it pairs with your surname.