Dulf is a Limburgish short form of Adolf, which itself derives from the Old German name Adalwolf. The name's elements adal “noble” and wolf combine to give a meaning of “noble wolf.” This strong, noble-bearing name was historically established in Germanic and Scandinavian realms, notably used by several Swedish kings, such as Gustav II Adolf in the 17th century. In the Limburgish region, straddling present-day Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany, shortened forms of longer names are common, and Dulf emerged as an affectionate or familiar variant. Its use, however, always paled in relation to the predominant English and German forms like Adolph or Dolph. Tragically, the name Adolf is heavily associated with Adolf Hitler, the leader of Nazi Germany during World War II, which stigmatized the entire onomastic family in the 20th century. Although Adolf itself is seldom used in modern times, the short form Dulf survives mainly as a family relic, known mostly in Limburgish communities. Etymology The ultimate source is the Proto-Germanic *áðalą “noble” and *wulfaz “wolf,” combined into *Aþalawulfaz (Old High German Adalwolf). The component adal signifies nobility, while the wolf was a symbol of strength and ferocity, so the name embodied heroic ideals. Meaning: “noble wolf” Origin: Limburgish short form of Adolf Type: First name Usage region: Limburg (Belgium, Netherlands, Germany)