The Name Arlo for Girls: Meaning, Origin, and Popularity

Arlo is a unique and striking name that has been growing in popularity for baby girls in recent years. With its strong, outdoorsy vibe and gender-neutral appeal, Arlo makes a bold statement while still feeling fresh and modern.

Origin and Meaning of Arlo

The name Arlo has an uncertain origin, but is believed to derive from an English surname that was originally a place name. The meaning of Arlo is unclear, but it may be related to the Italian name Carlo or Spanish name Carlos, meaning "free man." Arlo is also sometimes considered a variation of the name Harlow, which means "hill covered with harlots."

Despite its somewhat ambiguous origins, Arlo has a distinctly Old World charm. The name has been used historically, but has experienced a recent resurgence in popularity, particularly for female bearers.

Arlo's Popularity and Trends

In 2022, Arlo ranked as the 2,073rd most popular name for baby girls in the United States, with 92 girls given the name that year. While not yet cracking the top 1,000 names, Arlo has been steadily climbing the charts in recent years as parents seek out unique, gender-neutral options.

The name first appeared on the Social Security Administration's baby name data in the 1970s, but remained very uncommon until the 2010s. Arlo's popularity has more than doubled since 2010, indicating that this name is resonating with a growing number of modern parents.

Famous Arlo Name Bearers

There are a few notable women who share the name Arlo, though it remains a relatively rare name for females. One high-profile Arlo is American actress Arlo Westlake, known for her roles in films like The Sopranos and Boardwalk Empire.

Beyond the entertainment industry, Arlo is not a particularly common name for real people. However, the name's rising popularity suggests that more girls named Arlo may emerge in the coming years.

The Style and Appeal of Arlo

Arlo has a fresh, nature-inspired style that gives it a distinctly outdoorsy, adventurous vibe. The name feels both gender-neutral and distinctly feminine, making it an appealing choice for modern, progressive parents seeking a name that bucks traditional gender norms.

Arlo has a strong, resilient quality that suggests a bold, confident personality. It's the kind of name that could suit a wide range of character types - from the free-spirited, nature-loving type to the ambitious, trailblazing go-getter.

Parents drawn to Arlo likely value individuality, uniqueness, and a connection to the natural world. The name has a certain cool, effortless charm that appeals to parents seeking a name that is both memorable and easy to wear.

Positive Traits Associated with Arlo

Some of the positive qualities commonly associated with the name Arlo include:

• Adventurous and outdoorsy
• Independent and self-assured
• Confident and resilient
• Free-spirited and creative
• Individualistic and non-conformist

Overall, Arlo is a name that projects an aura of strength, confidence, and a free-spirited zest for life. It's the kind of name that can inspire a young girl to embrace her unique identity and follow her passions.

How Arlo Flows with Common Names

Arlo has a strong, punchy sound that flows well with a wide range of middle and last names. Some examples of how Arlo might pair nicely include:

• Arlo Grace Emerson
• Arlo Jane Walker
• Arlo Paige Harrington
• Arlo Reese Mitchell

The name's gender-neutral quality also makes it easily combinable with both traditionally masculine and feminine middle names. Arlo has a bold, decisive feel that complements a wide variety of surname styles, from classic to modern.

Cultural References and Associations

While Arlo is not a particularly common name, it does have some subtle cultural references and associations. The name may call to mind the folk singer Arlo Guthrie, known for his protest songs in the 1960s. Arlo is also the name of the main character in the Pixar film The Good Dinosaur.

Beyond these few references, Arlo remains a relatively uncom