Ran (Ranulf/Ranulph).. spelling? Yay or nay?

[Expectinganother2023]

Ranulf/Ranulph is the only name we've come up with for boy no.2 that we are seriously considering at this point. I would frequently shorten his name to 'Ran' but I can't decide on the full spelling. Naturally the idea came from Ranulph Fiennes the amazing explorer, but the 'Ranulf' spelling is more traditional (I was surprised to find out) and comes from Old Norse.. which was a massive bonus to me as our other son has a Dutch name, and I love Scandinavian names.

Opinions please, thanks.

I prefer the Ranulph spelling

Traditional spelling usually doesn't mean original spelling, but most used spelling during era you're trying to emulate. So, Cecily will be traditionally royal name for medieval Plantagenet, but not for modern monarchy.

I would go for Ranulph cause never seen Ranulf spelling.

Ranulph, never heard it shortens to Ran though, are pronouncing as in 'ran for a bus'?

This is a good point, thanks.

Thanks for the responses everyone.

Yes, it's pronounced 'ran-ulf' so it would be like ran as in 'for a bus' lol. I like it as a shortening/nickname, but I'm happy with the full name - I was just unsure on what spelling to go for ☺️

Ranulf on Wikipedia

Ranulph F is a childhood friend of my mother and his family called him Ran growing up, if that is of interest?

I was just going to add that I worked on a project with Ranulph Fiennes once and he was adamant that everyone call him Ran!

I like it.

I like it. Strong.

Ranulph.

Ps I like both spellings.

Randolph

Thanks everyone I appreciate it.

That sounds interesting! Yes I like it shortened as well as the full name

That sounds interesting! Yes I like it shortened as well as the full name

Hi, yes I definitely think it sounds nice shortened (as well as in full) and goes well with our other child's name. Thanks for your comment.

I think we will go with the 'ph' spelling taking these comments on board. Thanks everyone.

I’d go with Ranulph

My worry might be he’d end up Randy or Dolph. But it’s nice enough otherwise.

Ranulph is not common but attractive for a grown man.

Ran, or Rani. We have a Ranulph I call him Ran, he prefers Rani. He loves that loosely translates as means wise-wolf.