Rankin - Name Meaning and Origin

The boy's name Rankin \r(a)-nkin, ran-kin\ is of Old English and Celtic origin, and its meaning is "little shield; Son of Francis". Surname found in Scotland and Ireland.

Rankin has 2 variant forms: Rankine and Rankinn.

Rankin is a very rare male first name and a very popular surname (source: 1990 U.S. Census). Displayed below is the baby name popularity trend for the boy's name Rankin. Click here to compare Rankin with related baby names.