What Does the Name Geraldine Mean?

Choosing a name for your child is a big decision. It's important to choose a name that has a special meaning or significance to you. One name that has a rich history and meaning is Geraldine. In this article, we'll explore the origin, popularity, and famous people with the name Geraldine.

The name Geraldine is of Germanic origin and is derived from the name Gerard, which means 'brave with a spear.' The name was first introduced to England in the 12th century by the Normans. It was a popular name among the aristocracy and royalty in England during the Middle Ages.

The name Geraldine was most popular in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s. It reached its peak in popularity in 1934 when it was the 35th most popular name for girls. However, its popularity has declined since then. In recent years, it has not ranked in the top 1000 names for girls in the United States.

There have been many famous people with the name Geraldine throughout history. Some notable examples include: - Geraldine Ferraro: The first female vice-presidential candidate for a major political party in the United States. - Geraldine Page: An American actress who won an Academy Award for Best Actress in 1986. - Geraldine McEwan: A British actress who played Miss Marple in the television series Agatha Christie's Marple. - Geraldine Chaplin: An American actress who has appeared in many films, including Doctor Zhivago and The Age of Innocence. - Geraldine Brooks: An Australian-American journalist and author who won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2006 for her novel March.

There are several variations of the name Geraldine, including: - Geri - Gerri - Gerry - Jeraldine - Jeri - Jerri These variations can be used as nicknames or given names.

The name Geraldine means 'ruler with a spear.' It is a feminine form of the name Gerard, which means 'brave with a spear.' The name is associated with strength, courage, and leadership.

Choosing a name for your child is a personal decision. The name Geraldine has a rich history and meaning, and it may be a good choice for parents who are looking for a strong and unique name for their daughter. Whether you choose the name Geraldine or another name, it's important to choose a name that has a special meaning or significance to you and your family.