Arild is a masculine given name used primarily in Norway. It is possibly a variant of Harald or Arnold, though the exact etymology remains uncertain. As a variant of Harald, Arild would trace back to the Old Norse name Haraldr, which is composed of the elements herr ('army') and valdr ('power, ruler')->ultimately cognate with Old English Hereweald, from here ('army') and weald ('powerful, mighty'). Alternatively, if derived from Arnold, the name would mean 'eagle power' from the Old German elements arn ('eagle') and walt ('power, ruler'). The name Arild is relatively rare. In Norway, it has been used since the late 19th century but never achieved widespread popularity. No notably famous individuals bear this Norwegian name as a given name, though the name Arild also appears as a locality in Sweden. According to Swedish legend, a woman named Inger had two sons named Arild and Tore; the stories explain the origin of the Arilds Chapel in the village of Arild in Skåne, Sweden. As a name, it belongs to the context of Scandinavian names from the Old Norse tradition and shares roots with more prominent names like Harald (several kings of Norway and Denmark) and Harold (a royal name in England). See also: Arild (place name), Harald, Arnold, Harold. Meaning: Army ruler (from Harald) or eagle power (from Arnold) Origin: Scandinavian, possibly Old Norse or Old German Type: Given name (male) Usage regions: Norway