Meaning & Origin
A surname originating as a patronymic, derived from Reynold.
Reynolds is a boy's and girl's baby name of Germanic origin, an anglicized surname form of Reynold — from the Germanic elements ragin (advice, counsel) and wald (rule), meaning 'wise ruler' or 'powerful counsel.' As a given name, Reynolds follows the American tradition of distinguished surnames becoming first names.
Ryan Reynolds — the Canadian actor who became one of Hollywood's most beloved stars through Deadpool and numerous comedic roles — has given the Reynolds surname enormous contemporary charisma. For parents who love the actor's combination of wit, charm, and genuine likability, Reynolds as a first name carries all of that along.