Arlo is a name that manages to be both ruggedly outdoorsy and effortlessly cool. It sits at the intersection of a “grandpa name” revival and the modern trend of short, punchy names ending in vowels. It evokes images of folk music festivals, mid-century charm, and adventurous spirits. While it has long been associated with the counterculture icon Arlo Guthrie, today it stands on its own as a friendly, approachable choice that feels just as at home in a city coffee shop as it does on a hiking trail.
Historically, the name carries a sense of security. Whether derived from Old English roots or literary inventions of the 16th century, the core meaning revolves around strength and protection. It is a name that feels grounded but not heavy, offering a soft sound with a sturdy backbone.
Verdict: Arlo is an exceptional choice for a baby born in 2025. It captures the current “soft boy” naming trend (similar to Milo and Theo) while retaining a bit of grit. If you are looking for a name that is easy to spell, impossible to dislike, and full of vintage character, Arlo is a winner.
Arlo Overview
Meaning: The name Arlo is of Old English origin, and it means “fortified hill,” which means a wall or rock that prevents enemies from breaching a community.
Gender: Arlo is traditionally a masculine male name, but it can also be used as a nickname for girls.
Origin: Arlo is of Old English origin. It doesn’t have a religious meaning, but it does have a strong meaning.
Pronunciation: Arlo is pronounced like “AAR-loh.”
Popularity: It is considered a popular name, most popular in the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Australia, reaching 220 on the Top 1000 list in 2020.
Nicknames: Alfie, Ar, Ari, Aries, Aris, Arlie, Arlo Sport, Asslo Hill, Loey.
Variations: Arleigh, Arliss, Arlyn, Arlys, Harlow, Harlowe.
Namesakes: Arlo Brunsberg, Arlo Eisenberg, Arlo Guthrie, Arlo Parks, Arlo West.
What Does Arlo Mean?
The name Arlo is most commonly cited as being of Old English origin with the meaning “fortified hill.” This interpretation breaks down into two parts: the hill itself and the fortification (or ruins) that sit atop it. It paints a picture of resilience, defense, and a vantage point of safety.
However, the etymology of Arlo is a favorite debate among onomatologists because it likely has literary roots rather than purely ancient ones. Many scholars believe the name was popularized, or perhaps invented, by the poet Edmund Spenser in his 1590 epic, The Faerie Queene. He used “Arlo Hill” as a poetic alteration of the real-life Irish place name Aherlow (Galtymore).
In this context, the meaning transcends a simple definition; it represents a mythical landscape. If one were to adopt the personality of this name, they would be strong, confident, and unafraid of obstacles. The “fortified” aspect suggests a person who protects their loved ones, serving as a pillar of strength in their community.
Where Does the Name Arlo Come From?
The history of Arlo is a tapestry of geography and literature. While the Old English “fortified hill” is the standard definition, the name’s history is surprisingly eclectic.
- Literary Origins: As mentioned, its first major recorded use was in Spenser’s The Faerie Queene in the late 16th century.
- Italian Connection: Some theories suggest Arlo is a shortened, anglicized variant of Carlo (the Italian form of Charles), giving it the meaning “free man.”
- American History: The name remained relatively obscure in the US until the mid-20th century, largely popularized by the folk singer Arlo Guthrie, son of Woody Guthrie, who gave the name a distinct counterculture, bohemian flavor.
How Popular Is the Name Arlo?
Arlo is currently a “rising star” in the United States and an established hit internationally. After falling off the Social Security Administration (SSA) charts entirely for over 50 years, Arlo made a triumphant return in 2011.
Since its re-entry, the name has skyrocketed. It is no longer a rare, dusty gem but a modern favorite. It fits perfectly into the “o-ending” craze that has propelled names like Leo, Theo, and Milo to the top of the charts. While it ranked 220 in 2020 (1), its trajectory suggests it is quickly moving toward the Top 150 or even Top 100 in 2025. It strikes a rare balance: it is popular enough to be recognized instantly, but not so oversaturated that there will be three Arlos in every classroom.
How Do I Pronounce Arlo?
The standard pronunciation is straightforward and phonetic: AAR-loh.
The emphasis falls gently on the first syllable. It rhymes with “Marlo” or “Harlow.” Because of its open vowel sounds, it has a soft, approachable cadence that is easy for young children to say.
Is Arlo a Boy or Girl Name?
Arlo is traditionally a masculine name. For decades, it was strictly used for boys, thanks largely to the Arlo Guthrie association.
However, in the modern naming landscape, Arlo is beginning to cross gender lines. It follows the path of names like Harlow, rowan, and Shiloh. The trend of using “boy names” for girls has led some parents, including celebrities like Leighton Meester and Adam Brody, to choose Arlo for their daughters. While it remains predominantly masculine statistically, it has the potential to become a true unisex option in the future.
Variations of Arlo
If you love the sound of Arlo but want something slightly different or deeper in heritage, consider these variations:
- Carlo (Italian, Spanish)
- Carlos (Spanish, Portuguese)
- Harlow (English)
- Marlo (English)
- Kylo (American, Modern)
- Arlowe (Modern spelling variant)
Nicknames for Arlo
Arlo is short enough that it doesn’t strictly need a nickname, but affectionate diminutives are always fun.
- Ari: A sweet, soft nickname often used for names starting with “Ar.”
- Lo: A cool, snappy shortened form.
- Ro: A slightly more creative take, focusing on the second syllable.
- Mars: A rare, playful nickname (derived from Arlo -> Marlo -> Mars).
- Arlie: A vintage-sounding diminutive that feels friendly and young.
Names Similar to Arlo
If Arlo is on your shortlist, you likely enjoy names that are vintage, vowel-heavy, or nature-inspired.
- Milo: Shares the friendly “o” ending and vintage charm.
- Ezra: Another biblical/vintage name that feels modern and soft.
- Silas: Shares the rustic, outdoorsy vibe of Arlo.
- Otis: A short, punchy vintage name with musical roots.
- Hugo: Intellectual and European, similar in weight to Arlo.
- Finn: Short, energetic, and adventurous.
- Jasper: A nature-adjacent name that pairs beautifully with Arlo.
- Felix: Means “lucky” and shares the upbeat, quirky energy of Arlo.
Middle Names for Arlo
Because Arlo is a two-syllable name ending in a vowel, it pairs well with longer, classic names or single-syllable punches.
Classic and Strong
These names ground the whimsical nature of Arlo.
Nature and Bohemian
These enhance the folksy, “Woody Guthrie” vibe.
- Arlo River
- Arlo Jude
- Arlo Wilder
- Arlo Forrest
- Arlo Sage
Modern and Cool
- Arlo Grey
- Arlo Fox
- Arlo Cruz
- Arlo Jett
- Arlo Hayes
Sibling Names for Arlo
Building a sib-set around Arlo means looking for names that are familiar but not “Top 10” common.
For a Brother
- Felix: Matches the vintage cool factor.
- Jude: Short, sweet, and musical.
- Leo: Shares the vowel ending and popularity trajectory.
- Miles: Gentle and sophisticated.
- August: A “soft” boy name that feels timeless.
For a Sister
- Hazel: Vintage, earthy, and currently stylish.
- Olivia: A classic pairing, though popular.
- Maeve: Short, Irish, and spunky.
- Flora: A distinct botanical name that isn’t overused.
- Cleo: Matches Arlo’s ending sound and vintage appeal.
Famous People Named Arlo
- Arlo Guthrie: The most iconic bearer of the name, an American folk singer-songwriter known for “Alice’s Restaurant.”
- Arlo Parks: A British singer-songwriter and poet who won the Mercury Prize, bringing a modern artistic flair to the name.
- Arlo White: A prominent English sports presenter and commentator, well known to soccer fans.
- Arlo Eisenberg: A pioneer in the sport of aggressive inline skating.
Arlo in Pop Culture
- Arlo Givens: A major character in the hit TV series Justified, playing a complex, rugged role.
- Arlo: The lovable Apatosaurus protagonist in Disney/Pixar’s movie The Good Dinosaur. This character significantly boosted the name’s popularity among young parents.
- Arlo Pecas: The baby in the movie The Boss Baby.
FAQs About the Name Arlo
Here are answers to the most common questions about this charming name.
What Is a Unique Boy’s Name?
There are many unique boy names, but some popular ones include Arlo, Darwin, and Harper. What makes a boy’s name unique is its spelling, its pronunciation, and meaning.
Is Arlo a Weird Name?
The name Arlo is not considered to be weird. On the contrary, it is a popular name with a unique meaning that people may perceive in various ways. For example, some may look at a fortified hill as strong and sturdy, while others may see it as a place of safety.
Is Arlo a Good Dog Name?
The name Arlo can be a good name for a dog. It is strong, masculine, and unique. It also has a significant meaning behind it.
Naming a chihuahua Arlo can perfectly fit its colossal personality and the fact that they don’t realize their size. Not to mention, it can be a great joke for family and friends.
What Is the Most Unusual Name?
The most unusual name is often dependent on opinion. Some people may consider the name Arlo unusual because of its meaning, while others may find it a common name. It varies from person to person.
What Is a Good Fraternal Twin Name To Go With Arlo?
Some good fraternal twin names to go with Arlo include Harper, Harley, Charlotte, and Olivia. These names are all unique in their own ways, but they also have a similar sound that can tie them together.
Is the Name Arlo Biblical?
No, Arlo is not a biblical name. It does not appear in the Old or New Testament. Parents looking for a biblical alternative with a similar sound might consider Shiloh or the classic Aaron, but Arlo itself stems from Old English or literary origins.
Why Is the Name Arlo So Popular Right Now?
Arlo is trending because it hits the “sweet spot” of current naming fashions: it is short, ends in the vowel “o” (like Milo, Theo, and Leo), and has a vintage, hipster appeal. The success of the Pixar movie The Good Dinosaur also introduced the name to a generation of new parents.
Can Arlo Be Short for a Longer Name?
While Arlo is usually a standalone name, it can function as a nickname. It is sometimes used as a short form for Carlo, Carlos, or Arlowe. Creative parents might also use it for longer names like Arnold or Arlington, though this is less common.
Does Arlo Mean “Hill” in Other Languages?
The connection to “hill” is primarily from its Old English roots. However, some linguistic traces suggest a link to the Celtic word “Aherlow,” which refers to a glen between two hills. The meaning is consistently tied to geography and high places across its various origin theories.
What Girl Names Sound Like Arlo?
If you love the sound of Arlo but want a more traditionally feminine name, consider Harlow, Marlowe, or Shiloh. These names share the “low” ending sound but have a longer history of usage for girls in the United States.
