Alger
Alger is a boy's name of Germanic origin.
Meaning
Elf spear or noble spear.
Origin and history
Alger is a masculine given name of Germanic and Old English origin, derived from elements meaning elf or noble combined with spear. Historically used in medieval England, it evolved into a rare given name and surname in the United States. It was most frequently registered as a given name in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and is very rare today.
Popularity in the United States
832 babies in the United States have been named Alger since 1880. It ranks #3844 all-time.
States where it is most popular
- MI (100 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 18 |
| 1890-1900 | 17 |
| 1900-1910 | 10 |
| 1910-1920 | 157 |
| 1920-1930 | 215 |
| 1930-1940 | 135 |
| 1940-1950 | 106 |
| 1950-1960 | 94 |
| 1960-1970 | 40 |
| 1970-1980 | 35 |
| 1980-1990 | 0 |
| 1990-2000 | 0 |
| 2000-2010 | 5 |
| 2010-2019 | 0 |
| 2020-2029 | 0 |
Famous people named Alger
- Alger Hiss: Government Official, Diplomat
Fun facts
- Alger derives from the Old English names Ælfheah or Ælfgār, combining elements for 'elf' and 'spear'.
- The surname Alger gained fame through Horatio Alger Jr., author of popular 19th-century rags-to-riches novels.