Meadow of the hares; army land
Derived from Old English elements, Harland most commonly refers to a 'land of hares' or a meadow where hares congregate. It may also stem from the Germanic elements 'hari' (army) and 'land', suggesting a territory associated with soldiers. Historically used as a surname, it transitioned to a given name in the 19th century.
Less common today
Harland isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #2,035 in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken, known as Colonel Sanders
Canadian-American actor and stand-up comedian
NFL player and head coach
