Gerald - Discover the Meaning, History, and Famous Namesakes

Meaning of Gerald

The name Gerald signifies a strong presence with its roots in warrior culture. Translated as spear ruler, it embodies leadership and courage. Its origins lie in the ancient belief of strong guidance, and its association with valor has made it a popular choice throughout history.

Find more names related to the name Gerald.

Leader, Warrior, Brave, Noble, Guardian, German,

Gerald - Discover the Meaning, History, and Famous Namesakes

Pronunciation Guide for Gerald in German

ˈdʒɛrəld - Gerald

  • /dʒ/: soft 'g' similar to the 'j' in jump
  • /ɛ/: pronounced like 'e' in net
  • /r/: lightly rolled 'r'
  • /ə/: a schwa sound, like 'a' in banana
  • /l/: l as in leaf
  • /d/: d like in dog

Said like 'JERR-ald', focusing on the soft 'G' and emphasis on the first syllable.

Origin of Gerald

Gerald traces back to Germanic roots, originating from elements meaning spear and rule. This historical name was borne by many leaders and warriors, reflecting a strong influence in medieval times and carrying a legacy of authority and nobility.

Gender Usage of Gerald

The name Gerald is primarily associated with the male gender. Although largely male, some modern trends show gender-neutral uses. Worldwide, it is commonly male, with notable individuals such as Gerald Ford and Geraldine Chaplin showcasing its versatility.

Popularity of the Name Gerald

The name Gerald has seen fluctuating popularity over the decades. It enjoyed significant use in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom. Its classic nature sustains moderate popularity, enduring as a timeless choice.

Gerald Around the World

Gerald enjoys global recognition, particularly in Germany, England, and America. Its translation adapts slightly across languages, while maintaining its core meaning. The name carries prestige and historical depth, appreciated in diverse cultures.

Global Distribution and Gender Ratio of the Name Gerald
Country Usage % Female % Male %
US 35.1% 0.39% 99.61%
PH 14.58% 0.93% 99.07%
SG 7.61% 0.89% 99.11%
ID 7.03% 1.92% 98.08%
MY 4.53% 0.75% 99.25%
Country-specific gender and popularity insights are derived from Gender API data.

Characteristic Traits of Gerald

  • Leadership : People named Gerald are often seen as natural leaders, with a strong ability to guide and influence others.
  • Loyalty : Geralds are noted for their steadfast loyalty, making them reliable friends and partners.
  • Bravery : Embodying the spirit of valor, Geralds do not shy away from challenges.
  • Intelligence : Known for their sharp intellect, they excel in strategic thinking and problem-solving.
  • Charisma : Geralds often possess a magnetic charm that draws people towards them.

Career Tendencies of People Named Gerald

  • Leadership Roles : Many Geralds gravitate towards leadership positions due to their strong presence and decision-making skills.
  • Military : Historically aligned with warrior attributes, Geralds often pursue careers in the military or defense sectors.
  • Business : With a knack for strategy, they succeed in various business and management roles.
  • Politics : Drawn to public service, Geralds often make influential politicians and statesmen.
  • Engineering : Their logical thinking suits the analytical demands of engineering fields.

Interesting Facts About the Name Gerald

  • Pop Culture : Featured in films and literature, with characters named Gerald often portrayed as dignified and authoritative.
  • Historical Figures : Numerous notable historical figures, including royals, bear the name Gerald.
  • Royal Association : Historically favored in noble circles, adding a royal touch.
  • Widely Used : Persistently popular due to its classic appeal and strong historical connections.
  • Influential Characters : Known for their impactful roles in various narratives across media.

Famous People Named Gerald

  • Gerald Ford: 38th President of the United States
  • Gerald Durrell: Renowned naturalist and author
  • Geraldine Chaplin: Acclaimed actress
  • Gerald Butler: Famous Hollywood actor
  • Gerald Anderson: Popular Filipino actor

Similar Names

  • Gerhardt: A German name meaning spear-strong, sharing the warrior essence with Gerald.
  • Garrett: Having roots in English, this name means spear strength, akin to Gerald's meaning.
  • Gerry: A shortened, affectionate version, retaining Gerald's noble spirit.
  • Geron: Derived from ancient roots, signifying a strong ruler similar to Gerald.
  • Gerrit: A Dutch derivation which means brave with the spear, echoing Gerald's strength.
  • Gerian: An uncommon variant emphasizing the strong nature shared with Gerald.
  • Geraldo: The Spanish version of Gerald, highlighting its global appeal with the same meaning.
  • Jared: A phonetic sibling, meaning he descends, sharing noble associations.
  • Gerulf: This name means wolf and spear, tying with Gerald's warrior roots.
  • Geraint: A name of Welsh origin, meaning old and spear, akin to Gerald.