What Does the Name Gilbert Mean?

Choosing a name for your child is an important decision. It is a name that will stay with them for the rest of their life, and it is important to choose a name that has meaning and significance. One name that has a rich history and meaning is Gilbert. In this article, we will explore the origin and significance of the name Gilbert, as well as its popularity and variations.

The name Gilbert is of Germanic origin, and it is derived from the elements 'gisil' meaning 'pledge' or 'hostage', and 'berht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous'. Therefore, the name Gilbert means 'bright pledge' or 'famous hostage'. The name was popularized by Saint Gilbert of Sempringham, who founded the Gilbertine Order of monks in the 12th century. The name was also borne by Gilbert de Clare, a powerful nobleman in medieval England.

The name Gilbert was a popular name in medieval England, but its popularity declined in the 19th and 20th centuries. However, the name has seen a resurgence in recent years, particularly in France and Germany. In the United States, the name Gilbert was most popular in the early 20th century, but it has since declined in popularity. According to the Social Security Administration, the name Gilbert ranked 899th in popularity in 2020.

There are several variations of the name Gilbert, including Gil, Gib, and Bert. In France, the name is often spelled Gilles, and in Germany, it is spelled Gisbert. There are also several feminine variations of the name, including Gilberta and Gilbertine. The name has also been used as a surname, particularly in England.

There have been several famous people named Gilbert throughout history. Some of the most notable include: - Gilbert Keith Chesterton, English writer and philosopher - Gilbert Gottfried, American comedian and actor - Gilbert Stuart, American portrait painter - Gilbert O'Sullivan, Irish singer-songwriter - Gilbert Arenas, American basketball player There have also been several fictional characters named Gilbert, including Gilbert Blythe from the Anne of Green Gables series and Gilbert Grape from the novel and film What's Eating Gilbert Grape.

In conclusion, the name Gilbert has a rich history and meaning. It is a name that has been used for centuries, and it has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Whether you choose to name your child Gilbert or one of its variations, it is a name that is sure to have significance and meaning for years to come.