Descendant of the nobleman or prince
Derived from the Old Norse word 'jarl' (meaning nobleman or earl) combined with the patronymic suffix '-ing'. It historically denoted someone belonging to a noble lineage or the son of a chieftain. While common in Scandinavia, it remains a rare and distinctive choice in the United States.
Less common today
Erling isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #2,484 in 2023.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Norwegian professional footballer and prolific striker
Norwegian explorer and first person to reach the 'three poles'
12th-century Norwegian earl and crusader
Olympic gold medalist in cross-country skiing
