Gerald
Gerald is a boy's name of Germanic origin.
Meaning
Rule of the spear.
Origin and history
Gerald is a classic masculine name derived from Germanic roots meaning rule of the spear. It was introduced to Britain by the Normans and became very popular in the United States throughout the mid-20th century. Today, it remains a traditional choice with enduring historical resonance.
Popularity in the United States
448,966 babies in the United States have been named Gerald since 1880. It ranks #72 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #980.
States where it is most popular
- NY (8.8 %)
- MI (8 %)
- PA (7.3 %)
- IL (6.3 %)
- CA (5.7 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 223 |
| 1890-1900 | 753 |
| 1900-1910 | 2,014 |
| 1910-1920 | 16,522 |
| 1920-1930 | 44,520 |
| 1930-1940 | 82,821 |
| 1940-1950 | 103,342 |
| 1950-1960 | 82,626 |
| 1960-1970 | 55,305 |
| 1970-1980 | 26,147 |
| 1980-1990 | 15,507 |
| 1990-2000 | 9,797 |
| 2000-2010 | 5,146 |
| 2010-2019 | 3,031 |
| 2020-2029 | 1,212 |
Famous people named Gerald
- Gerald Ford: President, Politician
- Gerald Green: Athlete, Basketball Player
Nicknames
Gerry, Jerry, Geri
Fun facts
- Gerald Ford served as the 38th President of the United States from 1974 to 1977.
- The name was brought to Great Britain by the Normans and eventually assimilated into English and Irish traditions.