Rafe

Rafe is an English given name that originated as a medieval vernacular pronunciation of Ralph, itself derived from the Old Norse name Ráðúlfr, composed of the elements ráð meaning counsel and úlfr meaning wolf. This spoken form predates standardized spelling and reflects how the name was commonly sounded in Britain before literacy widespread fixed written forms. It remains in occasional use in England and has experienced modest revival as a given name distinct from Ralph. Related forms include Ralph, Raoul, and Rodolfo.