'Rand' originates from Old Norse, specifically the word 'rönd', where 'rönd' meant 'edge, rim, shield'.

'Rand' entered English via Old English and Middle English (as 'rand'), retaining the sense of 'rim' or 'edge' and later became used as a surname 'Rand'.

Initially it referred to a physical 'rim' or 'edge' (or the rim of a shield); over time it developed into a family name and now appears primarily as a proper noun (surname) in modern usage.